Former Nigeria international Taju Disu in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa tipped Arsenal to overcome Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final as Mikel Arteta’s side chase a first European crown.
Disu, a former Nigeria’s Flying Eagles coach, believes Arsenal have what it takes to defeat the defending champions despite acknowledging the scale of the challenge ahead.
“I hope Arsenal will win it this time because they have been in the final before and lost. It’s been a long time coming. I wish them the very best of luck. It’s not going to be an easy match because PSG are a great side and defending champions, but if Arsenal can get their tactics right, they can win,” Disu told Footy-Africa.
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Disu also shared his thoughts on the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying draw, which saw Nigeria placed alongside Mozambique, Tanzania and Madagascar.
The former international warned that African football has become increasingly competitive and insisted the Super Eagles no longer command the same fear factor they once enjoyed across the continent.
“They should prepare very well and be ready for every match,” he said. “There are no easy teams anymore in African football. These countries are no longer afraid when they play Nigeria. It was different before. In those days, if you came to Nigeria, you already felt beaten. And when Nigeria travelled away, opponents were under pressure because of our reputation.”
“But things have changed now because other countries know Nigerian football is not what it used to be. The players must go there, do their best and represent the country well. From what I have seen recently, I don’t think we have much of a chance, but I still wish them the very best.”
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The Gunners will face the French champions in Budapest on 30 May, with Arsenal aiming to cap a remarkable campaign by lifting the trophy for the first time in the club’s history.
Arteta’s men head into the final unbeaten in this season’s competition and are seeking to add continental success to their recent Premier League triumph, which ended a 22-year title drought.
