Former Nigerian international Joseph Yobo has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to advance beyond the group stages at the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Yobo made the statement following the tournament’s draw, held on Monday in Rabat, Morocco.
Nigeria, placed in Group C, will face formidable opponents, including former AFCON champions Tunisia, as well as Uganda and Tanzania. Despite the challenges, Yobo remains optimistic about the team’s prospects.
“We have a very good team, and the players are showing significant improvement,” Yobo remarked. “This generation of players is one of the best we’ve had.
While the group isn’t easy, advancing from the group stage has never been an issue for the Super Eagles.”
The 2013 AFCON-winning captain is hopeful that Nigeria can surpass their performance at the previous edition in Côte d’Ivoire.
“It’s important to start strong and carry that momentum all the way to the final,” he added. “We’ve built on our experience from AFCON 2023, and it’s time to reclaim the trophy. With the quality of players we have and a brilliant new coach, I believe we can achieve that.”
In other group allocations, hosts Morocco are in Group A with Mali, Zambia, and Comoros. Group B features Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe.
Group D includes Senegal, DR Congo, Benin Republic, and Botswana, while Group E has Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan.
Defending champions Côte d’Ivoire will face Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique in Group F.