Former Nigerian international, Mutiu Adepoju has called on the Super Eagles to adopt a serious, disciplined and highly focused approach ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The 1994 AFCON champion urges proper preparation as Nigeria targets fourth continental title in Morocco, insisting that only proper preparation can deliver the country a long-awaited African crown.
The former midfielder, fondly known as “The Headmaster” for his incredible aerial ability during his playing career, delivered the warning while speaking to Brila.net, stressing that the Super Eagles remain one of the continent’s most targeted teams.
“Teams Raise Their Game Against Nigeria” – Adepoju
Adepoju cautioned that Nigeria’s status as a traditional powerhouse means that every opponent treats matches against the Super Eagles with heightened intensity.
“Teams playing against Nigeria always come with a different mentality,” Adepoju said.
“They raise their game because it’s Nigeria. That is the reality we face in every tournament.”
He stated that the team must respond to this reality with commitment, strong mentality and flawless tactical preparation.
Nigeria Drawn in ‘Manageable But Dangerous’ Group C
Nigeria has been placed in Group C for the AFCON scheduled to hold from December 2025 to January 2026 in Morocco, alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Although many analysts consider the group favourable, Adepoju emphasized that complacency could prove costly.
“I think we shouldn’t have problems if we do things right and the players do their job very well on the pitch,” he noted.
“If the right things are done, I believe we should be able to qualify from the group.”
The Super Eagles will begin their campaign against Tanzania, before facing Tunisia and later Uganda.
12-Year Title Wait: “Right Attitude Is Key”
Nigeria last lifted the AFCON trophy in 2013, when the late Stephen Keshi led a team powered by home-based stars and Europe-based regulars to continental glory.
Since then, the country has reached the AFCON final only once, the 2023 runners-up finish.
Adepoju, part of the famous 1994 AFCON-winning team, believes that the current squad has the talent to go all the way in Morocco but only if the players approach the tournament with total professionalism.
The former Real Sociedad and Racing Santander star warned that technical preparation, squad harmony, and mental readiness will determine Nigeria’s chances of reclaiming the title.
Nigeria, three-time African champions, will enter the tournament as one of the favourites, but Adepoju insists that the Super Eagles must first prove they are willing to “do things right” before dreaming of lifting the trophy.
