In Morocco, far from home but firmly in the heart of Africa’s biggest football celebration, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has spoken with clarity, conviction and renewed optimism about the Super Eagles’ journey at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). His interview offered rare insight into the early skepticism that greeted the appointment of the current Super Eagles coach, the difficult rebuilding phase, and the visible transformation that has now turned Nigeria into one of the tournament’s strongest contenders.
According to the NFF President, the decision to appoint the coach was never an easy one. From the very beginning, the move was greeted with widespread doubt from fans, analysts and even some stakeholders within the football community. Many questioned whether the coach had the pedigree, tactical depth and temperament to handle the pressure that comes with managing Nigeria’s national team.
“The very time we decided to hire this coach, a lot of people had a lot of doubt on him,” the NFF President recalled. “But as people say, it is only when you give a coach time to form up a team.”
That statement has now become a defining theme of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign. Time, patience and trust qualities often in short supply in Nigerian football have proven decisive.
A Difficult Beginning Marked by Experimentation
The early phase of the coach’s tenure was anything but smooth. In his first few matches, the team struggled for consistency, identity and balance. The coach made frequent changes to his lineup, rotating players almost every game as he searched for the right combination.
“If you look at the way he started, about seven matches, he was changing players match in, match out,” the NFF President explained.
This period of experimentation drew criticism from fans who felt the team lacked stability. However, behind the scenes, the coach was laying the foundation for something more enduring a clearly defined system supported by players who understood their roles.
A Defined Starting XI and Tactical Clarity
Fast forward to AFCON 2025 in Morocco, and the difference is unmistakable. For the first time in a long while, Nigeria can confidently point to a settled starting XI. The team now plays with cohesion, structure and purpose qualities that have been evident in their recent performances.
“Now we have gotten to a point that at least we can say we have our starting 11,” the NFF President said with satisfaction. “If you look at what is going on, the coach can proudly say, ‘I have a starting 11,’ and if I want to do any substitution, I know who is coming out and who is coming in.”
This tactical clarity has allowed the Super Eagles to execute their game plan with confidence. Substitutions are no longer reactive or experimental but strategic, aimed at sustaining pressure or closing out matches.
The Return of the True Nigerian Football Identity
Perhaps the most encouraging sign, according to the NFF President, is the return of the football style Nigerians recognize as their own fast-paced, aggressive, skillful and fearless.
“We must be happy to see Nigeria play the kind of good ball that Nigerians really know about Nigeria football,” he said.
Over the last three games in particular, the Super Eagles have displayed intensity, unity and hunger. Their pressing game, quick transitions and attacking confidence have reignited belief among fans at home and earned respect across the continent.
Observers now speak of a visible “Nigeria spirit” a blend of flair and resilience that once made the Super Eagles one of Africa’s most feared teams.
A Hungry Squad Chasing History
Beyond tactics and form, the NFF President emphasized the psychological readiness of the squad. The players, he said, are deeply motivated by the opportunity to end Nigeria’s long wait for continental glory.
“I know the boys are more hungry to see that they win this trophy,” he noted. “Because it’s going to be a very big thing of joy to them. The last time we won it was thirteen years ago.”
That drought has weighed heavily on Nigerian football. AFCON triumphs in 1980, 1994 and 2013 remain proud memories, but a new generation is eager to write its own chapter. For many players in the current squad, lifting the AFCON trophy would represent the pinnacle of their international careers.
From Skepticism to Strong Contenders
What began as a controversial appointment has now evolved into one of the most promising Super Eagles campaigns in recent years. The NFF President’s reflections underline a broader lesson for Nigerian football: success often requires patience, even in a results-driven environment.
In Morocco, as Nigeria continues its quest for a fourth AFCON title, belief is growing that this team has both the quality and the mentality to go all the way. The coach once doubted is now delivering results, the players are united, and the nation is beginning to dream again.
