Former Nigeria star Ogenyi Onazi charges Super Eagles players to emulate AFCON 2013 success in Morocco

Former Nigeria midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has charged the current Super Eagles players to mirror their commendable performance at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, where the West African emerged as champions in the upcoming tournament.

The 35^th edition of the continental showpiece will commence on December 21, 2025, with 24 countries expected to battle it out for the trophy in Morocco.

In an interview with Footy Africa, Onazi called on the players to remain focused and united, insisting that doubt from the outside should serve as motivation rather than distraction.

He pointed to Nigeria’s memorable AFCON triumph in 2013 as a clear example of how belief and determination can overcome skepticism.

“Just like our team in 2013, we had many new players who made people not believe in us,” Onazi told Footy Africa.

“We knew we had a huge task in front of us, and we decided to give it our best. We were able to lift the title. I expect the same from this set of players.”

Onazi also stressed the importance of mental strength, urging the current crop of Super Eagles to ignore criticism and give everything on the pitch when the tournament begins.

“Forget about what anyone thinks and go hard, real hard, to try and win the title,” he added. “Once you wear that jersey, it does not matter when you play. What matters is your heart.”

Nigeria will compete in Group C of the tournament, where they are set to face Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda in the race for qualification to the knockout stage.