AFCON 2025: Ex-Nigeria Star Raises Doubts Over Eagles’ Title Hopes

AFCON 2025: Ex-Nigeria Star Raises Doubts Over Eagles’ Title Hopes

By Admin 

As the Africa Cup of Nations gets underway in Morocco, former Nigeria international Garba Lawal has raised concerns over the Super Eagles’ ability to mount a successful title challenge at the tournament, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Lawal, a veteran of four AFCON tournaments with Nigeria, acknowledged the quality within the current squad but questioned whether the team possessed the mental strength required to win the competition. He described the players as a “special generation” but insisted that talent alone may not be enough to secure continental glory.

Speaking in an interview, the former midfielder pointed to what he described as a lack of “character and spirit,” linking his concerns to Nigeria’s recent failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to Lawal, that disappointment exposed shortcomings that could resurface on the AFCON stage.

His comments come at a time of heightened expectations, particularly after Nigeria finished runners-up to hosts Ivory Coast at the previous edition of the tournament. The Super Eagles are set to begin their Group C campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday, with many fans hoping the team can build on its recent continental success.

Lawal, who won silver and bronze medals during his international career, believes the current squad must demonstrate greater resilience and unity if it is to claim a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.