AFCON 2025: Saka and Eze Back Super Eagles Despite England Allegiance

AFCON 2025: Saka and Eze Back Super Eagles Despite England Allegiance

By Niyi Busari 

Arsenal stars Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze have extended their best wishes to Nigeria’s Super Eagles as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations gets underway in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Eze shared the message on his X (formerly Twitter) account, posting a photo of himself alongside Saka and offering words of encouragement to the Nigerian national team.

“Dear Nigerians, we wish you well in AFCON ❤️,” Eze wrote.

Both players, who have been instrumental in Arsenal’s strong performances this season, are of Nigerian heritage but represent England at international level. Despite their decision to play for the Three Lions, they continue to publicly acknowledge and celebrate their Nigerian roots.

The Super Eagles, drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda, will begin their AFCON 2025 campaign against Tanzania on December 23. They will then face Tunisia on December 27 before concluding their group-stage fixtures against Uganda on December 31.

Eberechi Eze, a British footballer of Igbo descent, has often spoken about his close connection to Nigerian culture and heritage. Although he opted to represent England internationally—following missed opportunities with the Super Eagles—he continues to embrace his roots, blending his South London upbringing with his Nigerian identity.

Similarly, Bukayo Saka remains proud of his Yoruba heritage. Born to Nigerian parents who were raised in Nigeria, Saka has frequently credited his background for shaping his discipline and values. He has also maintained strong ties to the country, including visits to family in Kwara State, and regularly speaks about the influence of his heritage despite representing England on the international stage.