Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has expressed strong belief that Nigeria can clinch the Africa Cup of Nations title when the tournament begins in Morocco next year.
Iwobi, the most experienced member of the current squad, has featured in two recent AFCON campaigns—winning bronze in Egypt in 2019 and finishing as a runner-up at the 2023 edition in Côte d’Ivoire. With Nigeria narrowly missing out on the title earlier this year, the Fulham midfielder insists the team is ready to go one step further.
Iwobi Speaks on Nigeria’s Chances
As part of efforts to increase global interest ahead of the competition, scheduled for 21 December to 18 January during the European football season, CAF launched its European trophy tour in London.
The event featured Iwobi, former Arsenal midfielder Alex Song, the club’s former co-owner David Dein, and Afrobeats stars Odumodublvck and Stonebwoy.
Speaking to Ay Shuga at the launch, Iwobi was asked whether Nigeria could finally reclaim the continental crown.
He responded:
“Of course. At the last AFCON we came very close, and the only way to improve on that is to win the next one. We’ve got the players, we believe in ourselves, and now we just have to show it. I want to speak it into existence — Nigeria will win it.”
Changing the Narrative
Although optimism around the national team has dipped following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, Iwobi believes a strong showing in Morocco could transform public sentiment.
A successful AFCON campaign, combined with some of the structural improvements highlighted in recent analyses, could significantly reshape the trajectory of the team.
