“A Wonderful Experience”: Alebiosu Reflects on AFCON Debut With Super Eagles

“A Wonderful Experience”: Alebiosu Reflects on AFCON Debut With Super Eagles

By Niyi Busari 

Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu has submitted his Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 report to the club following an impressive spell with the Nigeria national team, the Super Eagles, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Alebiosu described his first major international tournament as a memorable and enriching experience, highlighting both personal milestones and the team’s overall achievement.

“It was a very good experience with a great group of players and a real honour,” Alebiosu said. “It was something different, something to learn from and something I can bring back with me to the club.”

The defender made his senior international debut during the tournament and reflected positively on the occasion, despite seeing his campaign cut short by injury.

“It was wonderful to be part of it. Making my debut was brilliant and I felt I played well,” he said. “Unfortunately, I picked up an injury, which was frustrating because I couldn’t finish the tournament.”

Nigeria reached the semi-finals of the competition and eventually secured a bronze medal, an outcome Alebiosu believes still reflected a strong collective effort.

“The team did well. We got to the semi-finals and although we didn’t win the competition, we finished third and took the bronze,” he noted. “The expectation in Nigeria is always to win, but we had to take something back with us, and bronze was what we achieved.”

On his debut, Alebiosu described the moment as a significant personal achievement.

“It was brilliant to walk out for your country — a huge achievement for me and my family,” he said. “I was a bit nervous at first, but I settled into the game and the players around me really helped.”

Despite the disappointment of injury, Alebiosu remains upbeat about his AFCON experience.

“It was frustrating to get injured, but overall it was a wonderful experience and one I’m very grateful for,” he added.