Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has said Nigeria’s current national team must convert talent into trophies if the squad is to earn lasting recognition, as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s opening Group game against Tanzania, the former Arsenal and Everton player stressed that success at AFCON 2025 would define how this generation of Super Eagles is remembered, following years of near misses on the continental stage.
“People normally get remembered for their accolades, and as a team there’s no better way to be remembered than winning something,” Iwobi said in an interview. “We’re very ambitious and we want to make a name for ourselves and for our families. But we have to work hard and hopefully achieve something special.”
Nigeria heads into the tournament under pressure to deliver tangible success. Despite boasting established stars across Europe, the Super Eagles have struggled to translate individual brilliance into major honours. World Cup qualification has become increasingly challenging, while the AFCON title has remained out of reach since the team’s last triumph in 2013.
The closest the current crop has come was at the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where Nigeria finished runners-up. That campaign raised expectations, but also reinforced questions about whether the team can take the final step when it matters most.
Iwobi is expected to play a central role in midfield, likely partnering Wilfred Ndidi as Nigeria looks to control games and unlock stubborn defences. His experience at club and international level places him among the leaders within a squad blending senior figures with younger talents.
While optimism surrounds the team, analysts note that ambition alone will not be enough. Tactical discipline, consistency across all three group matches and improved efficiency in front of goal will be crucial if Nigeria is to avoid another campaign of unfulfilled promise.
The Super Eagles will begin their AFCON 2025 campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday, targeting an opening victory to set the tone for the group stage. A positive start, officials say, could ease pressure and restore belief that Nigeria can finally reclaim continental glory.
