The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been placed in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to be hosted by Morocco this December.
The group stage draw, held in Rabat on January 27, promises a challenging path for Nigeria, particularly against Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles. The two nations share a storied rivalry in the tournament’s history. Tunisia eliminated Nigeria in the semi-finals of their triumphant 2004 campaign and in the Round of 16 during AFCON 2021 in Cameroon. However, the Super Eagles have had their moments, including a 4-2 victory over Tunisia on their way to the final of AFCON 2000 in Lagos.
While Nigeria and Tunisia are considered Group C favorites, East African sides Tanzania and Uganda are determined to contest for the two automatic qualification spots, ensuring a competitive group stage.
The AFCON 2025 draw has delivered exciting matchups across all groups:
- Group A: Host nation Morocco leads the group with Mali, Zambia, and Comoros.
- Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe promise intense competition.
- Group D: Defending champions Senegal face DR Congo, Benin, and Botswana.
- Group E: Algeria battles Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan.
- Group F: Ivory Coast begins its title defense against Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique.
With Malian coach Eric Chelle now at the helm, the Super Eagles aim to reclaim the AFCON title. Chelle, present during the draw, hopes to join the ranks of Nigerian coaching legends Otto Gloria, Clemens Westerhof, and Stephen Keshi, who previously led Nigeria to AFCON glory.
Nigerian fans remain optimistic, especially after their narrow loss to Ivory Coast in the last final. The countdown begins as the team prepares to take on Africa’s finest in Morocco this December.
CAF President Patrick Motsepe expressed confidence in the tournament’s success, stating, “I am extremely excited about the AFCON in Morocco it is going to be the most successful yet.”
This AFCON, the first to span two calendar years, was rescheduled to avoid clashing with the inaugural revamped FIFA Club World Cup. Motsepe assured fans that the new dates would not impact the tournament, highlighting Africa’s wealth of talented footballers who will be on display in Morocco.
The stage is set for a thrilling tournament, with Nigerians eagerly anticipating a stellar performance from the Super Eagles.
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