Super Eagles defender, Chidozie Awaziem, has expressed that lifting the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy would help Nigeria overcome the disappointment of missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the global showpiece were dashed after Eric Chelle’s squad suffered a 4-3 defeat on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final leg of the African playoffs. That setback means the West African giants will miss the World Cup for the second tournament in a row, deepening concerns among fans and stakeholders.
Awaziem stressed that the team must quickly put the World Cup heartbreak behind them and channel their energy into performing strongly in Morocco next year.
“Winning the AFCON is my focus with Nigeria. I don’t like to dwell on not qualifying for the World Cup. For us, for the country, for our loved ones, we have to correct this mistake,” Awaziem told FC Nantes’ official website.
The centre-back is now aiming to secure a place in the Super Eagles’ final squad for the AFCON 2025 finals, where Nigeria will attempt to reclaim continental supremacy.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to begin their campaign against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania on Tuesday, 23 December, in Fez, as they push for a fourth African title.
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