Igoh Ogbu has spoken of his pride after Nigeria ended the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a third-place finish, describing the Super Eagles squad as one of the best he has experienced and a group he feels honoured to be part of.
Nigeria claimed the bronze medal on Saturday night in Casablanca after overcoming Egypt in a dramatic penalty shootout.
The third-place play-off finished goalless in normal time, but the Super Eagles held their nerve from the spot to seal victory and close their AFCON campaign on a positive note.
The result secured Nigeria’s ninth bronze medal in the history of the competition, a record unmatched by any other nation at the Africa Cup of Nations.
It also capped a tournament in which the Super Eagles showed notable consistency, failing to lose any match in regulation time and keeping clean sheets throughout the knockout phase.
For Ogbu, the achievement carried added significance.
The defender was one of Nigeria’s debutants at the tournament and featured prominently, making two starts during the competition.
Speaking after the match, the 25-year-old reflected on both the collective success of the team and his personal satisfaction at contributing on such a major stage.
“I think the team is amazing. I love this team. I think this is one of the best teams we have ever had. I’m new here but for me I’m really proud of this team,” Ogbu said.
Nigeria’s campaign was defined by organisation, resilience and a strong sense of unity, qualities that were evident in their ability to respond after missing out on a place in the final.
Rather than allowing disappointment to derail them, the Super Eagles regrouped to deliver a composed performance in the third-place match, eventually seeing off Egypt under intense pressure.
Ogbu’s inclusion in the squad represented a significant milestone in his career.
The Slavia Prague defender used the tournament as an opportunity to test himself at continental level, gaining valuable experience alongside established internationals.
His contributions at AFCON 2025 underlined the depth within the Nigerian squad and the willingness of the coaching staff to trust new faces on a big stage.
Beyond the footballing aspects, Ogbu also highlighted the personal journey that led him to this point.
He acknowledged the role of his family in supporting his career and helping him reach the Africa Cup of Nations, a moment he described as a source of deep pride.
“My family have always supported me to be in this position so I’m really happy and proud,” he added.
The bronze medal finish reinforced Nigeria’s reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent footballing nations.
While the Super Eagles fell short of the ultimate prize, their overall performance and defensive solidity offered encouragement for the future, particularly with emerging players gaining tournament experience.
For Ogbu, AFCON 2025 marks a foundation rather than a conclusion.
The defender will now look to build on the lessons learned during the competition, using the exposure and confidence gained to push for a more prominent role with the national team in the years ahead.
As Nigeria reflect on another podium finish at the Africa Cup of Nations, Ogbu’s words capture the prevailing mood within the squad: pride in what has been achieved, belief in the quality of the team, and optimism about what the future may hold for the Super Eagles.
