Former Nigerian international Peter Ijeh has urged the Super Eagles to stop mourning their World Cup heartbreak and instead convert their frustration into an unstoppable charge at next month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
After watching Nigeria miss out on back-to-back FIFA World Cups, the former Malmö FF striker says the time for lamentation is over — the players must now rise to the occasion with renewed hunger and purpose.
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Ijeh, known for his blunt honesty and sharp football intellect, insisted that the disappointment of failing to reach the 2026 Mundial should serve as a powerful internal engine for the squad. “The energy from that failure shouldn’t break them — it should drive them. AFCON is a chance for redemption, and the boys must seize it,” he said.
The ex-Super Eagles forward believes Nigeria still possesses one of Africa’s most talented player pools but emphasised that success in Morocco will depend heavily on attitude and selection.
To him, the solution is simple: pick the best, focus the team, and attack the tournament with purpose. “We have good players. The best must be assembled, and their mindset must be right. No distractions, no excuses, just commitment to winning for the country,” he added.
Ijeh stressed that while missing the World Cup remains a painful wound for both players and fans, football offers little time to dwell on disappointment. With AFCON only weeks away, he warned that emotional recovery is essential if Nigeria is to avoid another embarrassment on the continental stage.
He reminded the squad that Nigerians are desperate for something to cheer about — not explanations, but performances. “AFCON is the next big opportunity. They must turn frustration into positive aggression and show Africa what Nigeria is made of.”
For Ijeh, the message is emphatic:
The World Cup may be gone, but AFCON is knocking — and this time, the Super Eagles must answer with fire.
