What are realistic expectations for Nigeria at AFCON 2025?
by Geoffrey Ejiga | by Geoffrey Ejiga
The NFF's Official “Semi-Final” Mandate
Nigeria’s Football Federation (NFF) has drawn a clear line for Malian Coach Eric Chelle. According to National Sports Commission chairman Shehu Dikko, reaching the semi-finals is the bare minimum expectation for Chelle's squad in Morocco.
The NFF Technical Committee reinforced this target during strategic meetings in Abuja, describing it as "realistic" given Nigeria's second-place finish at AFCON 2023. After the devastating failure to qualify for the 2026 WC, AFCON 2025 serves as Nigeria's chance for redemption after missing consecutive World Cups for the first time since the 1990s.
And the pressure only intensifies when considering Nigeria's incredible talent base. With most players having experienced AFCON finals and knowing what championship-level performance requires, many say anything less than a deep run would be nothing short of an organisational failure. See what SportyTrader experts think of Nigeria’s chances in our AFCON 2025 predictions and betting tips.
Squad Talent vs. Recent Form
On paper, Nigeria possesses firepower capable of dominating the continent. Victor Osimhen leads an attacking lineup that includes reigning African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman, Fulham's Samuel Chukwueze, and Turkish Super Lig sensation Paul Onuachu.
The midfield features Premier League old-boys Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, along with the rising Frank Onyeka, who plays for Brentford. Meanwhile, defensive anchors Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi provide stability in front of notorious shot-stopper Stanley Nwabili.
Yet recent performances on the international stage raise legitimate concerns about whether talent alone guarantees results. Nigeria's World Cup qualifying campaign exposed troubling patterns, with inconsistent finishing, defensive lapses under pressure, and an inability to control matches against organised opponents.
The playoff defeat to DR Congo, where Nigeria lost on penalties despite superior individual quality, underlined these issues. Promising talent means nothing if tactical cohesion and mental fortitude remain absent, and the "golden generation" label feels premature without silverware to validate it.
Nigeria last won AFCON in 2013, meaning current stars have achieved individual accolades while the national team's trophy cabinet remains empty for over a decade. Critics say European-based players struggling to replicate club form when wearing green and white point to systemic issues beyond personnel selection.
Group Stage Gauntlet: Assessing Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania
Despite Nigeria’s talent advantage that makes them favourites according to the AFCON betting odds, Group C presents deceptive danger for the Super Eagles. Tunisia, the 2004 champions, enter with serious confidence after topping their World Cup qualifying group and earning a credible draw against Brazil.
The Carthage Eagles thrive on tactical discipline and defensive structure, utilising high pressing to disrupt opponents before launching dangerous counter-attacks. Their recent form (22 goals scored and zero conceded in World Cup qualifying) perfectly demonstrates their clinical efficiency, which could even see them topping Group C. However, AFCON qualifiers revealed vulnerabilities for Tunisia when they were forced into prolonged defensive blocks.
The Tunisia clash on December 27 could determine group winners. Tunisia eliminated Nigeria in the 2021 AFCON Round of 16, proving they possess the tactical sophistication to frustrate superior talent. On the other hand, Uganda brings physical intensity and defensive discipline under experienced coach Paul Put.
The Cranes' aggressive pressing game and organised transitions make them dangerous opponents if Nigeria loses concentration. The final group match against Uganda could prove decisive if previous results create winner-take-all scenarios.
Tanzania represents the tournament underdog, having never advanced past the group stage in three previous appearances. However, Argentine coach Miguel Gamondi has instilled renewed confidence after consecutive qualifications for the first time in their history.
Tanzania relies on high energy levels and physical confrontation, particularly in midfield battles. Nigeria cannot afford complacency against opponents with nothing to lose and regional pride motivating every challenge. The opening match demands immediate dominance to establish psychological advantage and avoid early pressure.
