Nigeria's redemption mission begins at TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025, says coach Eric Chelle

CAF

29-01-2025

Nigeria's quest for a fourth TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title will be fueled by a hunger for redemption, according to Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.
Speaking after the tournament draw in Rabat on Monday night, the Malian tactician acknowledged the formidable challenge ahead but insisted that Nigeria's squad is motivated to go all the way.
'Yes, it's going to be difficult to win because there are 24 very good teams and some very good coaches,' Chelle admitted.
'I know I've got a team that's out for revenge, and I'm out for revenge too, so we're going to have a lot of fun.'
Nigeria, drawn in Group C, will face 2004 champions Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in the group stage.
While the Super Eagles boast a rich history in the tournament, having won three titles (1980, 1994, and 2013), Chelle and his team know that no opponent can be taken lightly.
Tunisia, a long-time rival, knocked Nigeria out in the round of 16 at the 2021 AFCON, adding an extra layer of intensity to their upcoming clash.
Uganda, making their eighth tournament appearance, and Tanzania, featuring for only the fourth time, will both be eager to cause an upset.
With 16 AFCON medals—more than any other nation in tournament history—Nigeria will be expected to advance from the group, but Chelle remains cautious.
The Super Eagles' agonizing 2-1 defeat to Côte d'Ivoire in the 2023 final remains fresh in the minds of players and fans alike.
That loss denied Nigeria a chance to add to their AFCON legacy, and Chelle believes it has only strengthened the team's resolve.
'We are out for revenge,' he stated confidently. 'We know what this team is capable of, and our goal is clear—to lift the trophy in Morocco.'
With a squad packed with talent, including Napoli's Victor Osimhen, Atalanta's Ademola Lookman, and a solid defensive unit, Nigeria remains one of the tournament favorites.
Beyond the competition itself, Chelle took a moment to acknowledge the tournament hosts, Morocco, for their hospitality and preparations.
'I'd also like to thank Morocco for the warm welcome. Shukran,' he said, using the Arabic word for 'thank you.'
With Morocco hosting the AFCON for the first time since 1988, the atmosphere is expected to be electric.
The tournament, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, will see matches played across six Moroccan cities, adding to the spectacle.
With 21 AFCON appearances, Nigeria remains one of the continent's footballing giants.
The last two tournaments have seen the Super Eagles fall short of expectations, but Chelle's words signal a shift in mindset—this is a team ready to fight for the trophy once again.
Their campaign begins in Group C, but the ultimate goal is clear: avenging the pain of 2023 and reclaiming Africa's biggest prize.