Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s chances of winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying that fans expect nothing less than bringing the trophy home. The 2025 AFCON is scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Nwabali, who emerged as one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast, said the team has drawn valuable lessons from their run to the final of the last tournament. “AFCON is one of the biggest tournaments in the world, not just in Africa,” Nwabali said while speaking on SuperSport TV. “As a big nation, we are always expected to win, not just to participate.” Nigeria finished runners-up in Ivory Coast after losing 2–1 to the hosts in the final, but the Chippa United shot-stopper believes that painful experience has only made the squad stronger and more determined. “Playing the final last year, I feel this year we are going to win it,” he said confidently. Nigeria has won the AFCON three times — in 1980, 1994, and 2013 under the late coach Stephen Keshi. Nwabali’s outstanding performances in Ivory Coast earned him national recognition and cemented his place as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper. However, the 28-year-old has recently faced criticism from some fans over a few errors and perceived time-wasting antics that led to avoidable bookings during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series. Despite this, Nwabali remains focused on helping Nigeria qualify for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Before the AFCON, the Super Eagles are set to continue their World Cup qualification campaign in the African playoffs next week. As head coach Eric Chelle prepares to release his squad list for both the playoffs and the AFCON, Nwabali is expected to face stiff competition from Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who is making a return to the national team.
Nwabali Confident Super Eagles Will Win 2025 AFCON
