Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has called on Nigeria’s national team to remain focused and clinch the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, stressing that it would be shameful for players of such calibre to miss the opportunity.
The retired midfielder, who was part of Nigeria’s gold-winning squad at the 2013 AFCON in South Africa, urged the current generation to avoid distractions and make history for themselves and the country.
“The Super Eagles of this generation need to win the AFCON title for themselves. It will be a bit shameful for players of this calibre in the squad to not touch the AFCON trophy,” Onazi said.
His comments come in the wake of an on-field altercation between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s 4-0 win over Mozambique on Monday. Onazi stressed that the team must remain united and focused.
“They have been playing well and must avoid distractions. When you win the AFCON, it gives you an edge in your career, and it is one of the biggest trophies in the world; it is as good for them as it is good for the country if they win,” he added.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that the issue between Osimhen and Lookman was resolved internally. Team Administrator Dayo Enebi said, “There is no problem whatsoever in our camp. Whatever people saw as a crisis between two brothers was easily resolved a couple of hours later. All is good.”
Head Coach Eric Chelle also addressed the matter, urging unity ahead of Nigeria’s quarter-final clash against Algeria in Marrakech. “What happens on the pitch stays in the group. My job is to keep the players focused,” Chelle said, praising their performance but warning against complacency.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi described the incident as a display of competitive spirit. “It was just a competitive mindset… we spoke about it in the dressing room, everything is fine. Everyone is in this together,” he told ESPN.
Nigeria have won all four of their matches in the tournament, scoring 12 goals without conceding. They last won the AFCON in 2013 and are chasing their fourth continental title, having previously triumphed in 1980 and 1994.
Do you think Onazis advice will help the Super Eagles succeed in the quarter-finals, or is it just empty motivation? 🤔
Do you think Onazis advice will make a difference in Super Eagles performance? Share your thoughts! 🤔 #AFCON2026 #StayFocused
Do you think Onazis advice will make a difference in the Super Eagles performance? Share your thoughts! 🤔🦅 #AFCON2026
Do you think Onazis advice will help the Super Eagles succeed in the AFCON quarter-finals, or is it just empty motivation? Lets discuss!
Do you think Onazis advice will help the Super Eagles secure a win in the quarter-finals? Share your thoughts! 🦅🇳🇬 #AFCON2026
I think Onazi is right, but does the Super Eagles need more than just focus to win? Maybe some tactical ces?
Do you think Onazis advice will give Super Eagles the edge in the AFCON quarter-finals? Stay focused, or is it just talk? 🤔
Do you think Onazis advice will help the Super Eagles in the quarter-finals, or is it just cliché motivation? Lets discuss!