Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali says he is confident Nigeria has what it takes to capture the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, stressing that the expectations of millions of fans go far beyond participation — they want the trophy delivered.
The 2025 AFCON is scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, and Nigeria will return to the tournament aiming to erase the disappointment of last year’s narrow defeat in the final.
Nwabali, who rose to prominence with his outstanding performances at the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast, reflected on the team’s growth and the lessons drawn from their strong run to the final. Speaking on SuperSport TV, he described the competition’s global importance and Nigeria’s status as a continental powerhouse. “AFCON is one of the biggest tournaments in the world, not just in Africa,” he said. “As a big nation, we are always expected to win, not just to participate.”
Nigeria’s 2–1 loss to hosts Ivory Coast in the 2023 final remains a major motivation for the squad, and the Chippa United goalkeeper believes that disappointment has prepared the team for a stronger push in Morocco. “Playing the final last year, I feel this year we are going to win it,” he added.
The Super Eagles have lifted the AFCON trophy three times — in 1980, 1994, and 2013 under the late Stephen Keshi — and are under pressure to end the decade-long wait for another triumph.
Nwabali’s emergence as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the 2023 tournament earned him widespread acclaim, but the shot-stopper has faced criticism in recent months. Concerns have been raised over some costly errors, unnecessary theatrics, and time-wasting incidents that led to avoidable cautions during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, moments that nearly jeopardised the team’s results.
Despite the scrutiny, Nwabali remains committed to helping Nigeria reclaim continental glory at the 2025 AFCON, insisting the team’s belief and experience will be crucial in their bid for a fourth title.
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