Former Super Eagles midfielder and 2013 AFCON champion Nosa Igiebor has issued a rallying cry to the Nigerian national team ahead of next month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, insisting that the time for near-misses and heartbreak is over — Nigeria must win the tournament.
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Speaking with conviction, Igiebor reminded the nation that the Super Eagles came agonizingly close in the last edition, finishing as runners-up in Ivory Coast. But he believes that good performances without trophies no longer count for anything.
“We came close last time, now we must finish the job. The target should be winning AFCON, nothing less,” he said firmly.
Igiebor explained that the Super Eagles have the talent, the depth, and the experience to go all the way, stressing that the squad has matured and must now convert potential into success.
“The quality is there. The players are good enough. Now they must show passion and desire and bring the trophy home,” he added.
The former Real Betis midfielder said winning AFCON is not just a football goal — it is a responsibility to millions of Nigerians who have endured disappointment after the team once again failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
“The fans deserve something to celebrate. Winning AFCON is the only way to make Nigerians smile again,” Igiebor noted.
He urged the players to approach the tournament with intensity and unity, insisting that a lack of hunger is often what separates champions from runners-up.
“AFCON is not won by talent alone. It is won by heart, discipline, and the will to fight for every ball,” he said.
Igiebor also encouraged the technical crew to select players based on form, not reputation, and to build a squad capable of adapting to different match situations.
“This is not the time for experiments. Pick the right players and go for the trophy,” he warned.
The midfielder ended with a strong message of belief and urgency:
“Nigeria has no excuse. This is the time to win AFCON again.”
