Coach Isreal Afolabi, a football coach and staff member at Leadway Pension, has urged the Super Eagles to approach today’s encounter with total commitment, intensity, and unity.
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Speaking in an interview with Sports247, Afolabi could not hide his excitement ahead of the clash, describing his deep emotional connection to the national team.
“I’m so, so excited because I love the Super Eagles more than any other team,” he said. “I can’t wait till 6:30 pm to see my darling Super Eagles beating Tanzania.”
Afolabi stressed that beyond tactics, the mindset of the players would be decisive. He wants every member of the squad to give everything on the pitch.
“I want to see fighting spirit. One hundred percent, all out,” he emphasized. “From the goalkeeper to the attackers, everybody must give everything if possible, even more than 100 percent.”
He singled out attacking stars Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon, calling on them to raise their level and take responsibility.
“I see Moses Simon as somebody better than Doku of Manchester City,” Afolabi stated. “But they must put their hearts into it when they wear the Super Eagles jersey. With that mentality, we can beat any team.”
The coach also highlighted the importance of communication and togetherness on the pitch, urging players to push one another positively without causing embarrassment or division.
“Talk on the field, encourage one another as a family,” he said. “Every ball should be contested. Be first to the ball. That is how we win.”
Although he could not recall a recent Nigeria–Tanzania encounter, Afolabi referenced Nigeria’s historical dominance and insisted that reputation alone should not breed complacency.
“Every game is war,” he declared. “Don’t underrate any team—Tanzania, Uganda, Tunisia. From the first minute to the 90th, everybody must be ready to fight.”
From a tactical perspective, Afolabi admitted concerns over Nigeria’s defensive struggles in recent matches. He praised the brief partnership between Calvin Bassey and Frederick before injuries disrupted consistency, while lamenting the absence of Ola Aina and other key defenders.
“The defensive mindset must change,” he said. “Fullbacks must think defensively first. Everyone must track back. Lose the ball, win it back immediately.”
He believes head coach Chelle must instill a collective defensive responsibility, similar to the work ethic seen in elite club sides.
On Victor Osimhen’s fiery “we’re going to war” statement, Afolabi dismissed concerns about pressure, insisting the Napoli striker’s mentality could inspire the entire squad.
“That is Osimhen’s mindset,” he explained. “He carries it every time he plays. Now he’s bringing it to the Nations Cup. That mentality will fire up the whole squad.”
Afolabi concluded with confidence that if the Super Eagles combine passion, discipline, and unity, they can secure a strong start to their AFCON 2025 journey.
“If we fight together and convert our chances, we will win,” he said. “That is my belief.”
