Former Nigeria international Samuel Elijah in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has said that the Super Eagles have yet to fully convince as a team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite winning all three of their group matches.
Nigeria finished top of Group C with a 100% record at the tournament in Morocco, ending ahead of Tunisia and Tanzania after victories over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda.
The Super Eagles opened their campaign with a tense 2-1 win over Tanzania, followed by a 3-2 victory against Tunisia, before closing the group stage with a 3-1 win over Uganda.
However, speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Elijah believes the performances have fallen short of the results:
“The team did well by winning all their games and qualifying for the round of 16. However, I have reservations about the quality of football they have played”.
He added that Nigeria’s lack of cohesion has affected their attacking output, including that of star striker Victor Osimhen:
“I think they have not played well as a team, and this is one of the reasons a striker like Victor Osimhen is struggling to score many goals.”
The former attacker also highlighted midfield concerns, calling on Alex Iwobi to increase his influence and urging the coaching staff to give more opportunities to Raphael Onyedika, who scored twice against Uganda:
“The midfield is not creating enough chances for the strikers, which is why I think Iwobi needs to step up. He is trying, but he can do more for the team by improving his chance creation. Onyedika is also a solid option who could come in and form a good partnership with Iwobi and Ndidi.”
Elijah also spoke about first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who he feels has not been at his best so far in the tournament, while backing him to retain his place:
“Stanley Nwabali has been at his best, and I would like to see him keep his place in the team. However, he needs to stay focused so that he does not commit an error that could affect the team.”
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Nigeria will face Mozambique in the round of 16 after the completion of the group stage. Mozambique qualified as one of the best third-placed teams, and Elijah warned against complacency:
“There are no small teams anymore or simple games. In the past, countries like Congo, Tanzania, and Sudan could be beaten with our reserves, but it is not like that anymore because football has improved across Africa. Mozambique will not be a pushover, but I expect the Super Eagles to win.”
