Former Nigeria international Andrew Uweh has called on the Super Eagles to put recent disappointments behind them and channel their full energy into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, insisting that the players must use the tournament to reaffirm their commitment to the country.
Uweh acknowledged the emotional toll of missing two consecutive World Cup tournaments, but stressed that the team cannot afford to dwell on failure with AFCON just weeks away.
“We must move past the setbacks. The AFCON is a new opportunity, and the players must show they are true professionals,” he said.
The former midfielder emphasized that major tournaments define players’ legacies and that the squad now has a chance to give Nigerians something to celebrate after a difficult period.
“Winning AFCON would help Nigerians shift attention away from past mistakes. It would bring joy back to the fans,” he added.
However, Uweh warned that simply winning is not enough, the most important thing is confronting the underlying issues that led to previous failures.
“Yes, victory will bring happiness. But the players must also correct the things that went wrong. We can’t repeat the same mistakes,” he explained.
He urged the team to match their talent with discipline, responsibility, and a renewed sense of unity, noting that personal pride must give way to collective purpose.
“Commitment is not about talking, it’s about action. Fight for the badge. Fight for each other. That’s what professionals do,” Uweh said.
Uweh also called on senior players to lead by example, especially in camp behaviour, punctuality, intensity in training, and communication with the coaching staff.
“Leaders in the team must step up. When senior players are focused, the entire squad follows,” he stated.
He concluded by reminding Nigerians that while frustration is understandable, national support remains crucial heading into Morocco.
“We all made mistakes, players, coaches, administrators. But now is the time to move forward. AFCON is our chance to start again.”
