Former Nigeria defender Godfrey Obaobona in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa stated that the Super Eagles must prioritise teamwork over individual brilliance if they are to beat Tunisia and progress at the Africa Cup of Nations.
In an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa, the former international warned that relying on star players alone will not be enough in modern African football.
Nigeria began their 2025 AFCON campaign with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania, needing a superb strike from Ademola Lookman to secure the win in Eric Chelle’s first match in charge.
The three-time champions now face Tunisia, who defeated Uganda 3-1 in their Group C opener. Friday’s meeting is expected to decide who finishes top of the group.
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Obaobona believes collective effort will be crucial against the Carthage Eagles.
“Football today is no longer about individual stars. The Super Eagles have stars—in fact, they have quality in all departments—but modern football is about collective play, teamwork, and commitment on the pitch,” he exclusively told Footy-Africa.
“If you believe you are Messi and you are not putting in the work, someone else will take the ball from you and hurt your team. So, I believe that if they play as a team, they will definitely go far in the competition.”
The former defender, who was part of Nigeria’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad, also stressed the importance of structure across the pitch.
“It doesn’t matter if we have Osimhen; if the ball is not getting to him, or if the defenders are not protecting the midfielders, there is no way the strikers can be supplied with the ball,” he added.
Obaobona added that the physical demands of African football make unity and commitment essential.
“This is African football. It is not about names or stars. It is very physical and demanding, and I believe we have the players, but we must play as a team,” he said.
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He declined to offer a detailed assessment of Nigeria’s defence, insisting tactical decisions should be left to head coach Eric Chelle.
“The coach is working with them in training and should know the kind of players he wants to use and the tactics to apply. He must make the decisions—that is why he is the head coach. So far, the team has been solid, and I believe all the players he has called up have the quality to play for the team,” he concluded.
Nigeria will face group leaders Tunisia on 27 December, with top spot in Group C at stake.
