'We always expect to win' - Nwabali backs Super Eagles to go one better at Afcon 2025

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has expressed confidence in Nigeria's chances of lifting the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy in Morocco.

Nigeria narrowly missed out on continental glory in the last edition held in Ivory Coast, where they lost 2-1 to the hosts in the 2023 final in Abidjan.

Speaking to SuperSport, the Chippa United shot-stopper said the team remains motivated to go one step further this time around, emphasizing that Nigeria's stature in African football means the aim is always to win.

"It's a big nation and going to a bigger tournament, because the Africa Cup of Nations is one of the biggest tournaments in the world not only Africa, as a big nation, we always expect to win, not to just go to participate," Nwabali said.

"But you know football is something you don't predict. Playing in the last final last year like I said, probably this year, I feel we are going to win it."

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania as they chase a record-equalling fourth AFCON title.

Despite the high expectations ahead of AFCON, the Super Eagles' immediate focus remains on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign after booking a place in the playoffs.

Nigeria sealed their playoff spot with an emphatic 4-0 win over the Republic of Benin in their final Group B match, finishing second in the World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles will now face Gabon in the continental playoffs later this month in Morocco.

The winner will advance to face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final stage, with the ultimate victor earning a place in the intercontinental playoffs for a chance to qualify for the World Cup in March.

Adeyemi Adewale

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