January 28 2025

Ex-Nigeria Captain Yobo Confident in Super Eagles’ AFCON Title Quest

Former Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo has expressed optimism about the Super Eagles’ chances of winning their fourth TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title at the 2025 tournament. His remarks followed Monday’s official draw held in Rabat, Morocco.

The Super Eagles were placed in Group C, alongside 2004 champions Tunisia and East African teams Uganda and Tanzania.

Reflecting on the draw, Yobo, a key player in Nigeria’s last AFCON triumph in 2013, expressed confidence in the team’s prospects.

“We have a talented young squad and a new generation of players who’ve been together for a while, so team chemistry won’t be an issue,” Yobo noted. “Looking at the group, it won’t be easy, but advancing from the group stage has never been a problem for the Super Eagles.”

Nigeria’s AFCON Legacy

The Super Eagles boast an impressive AFCON record, with 16 medals from 20 appearances. Their accolades include three championships (1980, 1994, and 2013), five runner-up finishes, and eight bronze medals. In the 2023 edition, Nigeria narrowly missed a fourth title, losing 2-1 to Côte d’Ivoire in the final.

Yobo, who assisted in conducting the draw, emphasized that the team should set their sights beyond the group stage, aiming for the ultimate prize.

“I hope we start strong and carry that momentum to the final,” he said. “We’re building on our performance from AFCON 2023, and it’s time to reclaim the trophy. With the players we have and a wonderful new coach, I believe we can achieve that.”

Group C Challenges

Tunisia, the group’s second most accomplished team, poses a formidable challenge. The North Africans, with one AFCON title from 21 appearances, famously knocked Nigeria out in the 2021 Round of 16. Uganda, making their eighth AFCON appearance, and Tanzania, appearing for only the fourth time, could also be potential spoilers.

Despite the competition, Yobo remains confident in Nigeria’s depth and recent progress under their new coach.

“We have a strong team, and the players are improving,” he said. “It’s all about maintaining momentum and delivering when it matters most.”

Tournament Overview

AFCON 2025 will run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, featuring 24 nations competing for glory in Morocco.

Group Stage Draw: