Nigeria’s Super Eagles have a strong chance of advancing from Group C in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to Oldham Athletic U19 coach Chukwuma Akuneto.
Speaking exclusively to softfootball.com, Akuneto expressed confidence in Nigeria’s squad and coaching setup but cautioned that Tunisia would be a major hurdle in the group stage.
The draw for the 35th AFCON, conducted at the Mohamed V Theatre in Rabat, placed Nigeria in a competitive group alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania. Akuneto highlighted Nigeria’s depth in talent and the advantage of having a coach with previous AFCON experience.
“Our chances are very bright. We have the players, and now, with a coach who has led a team to AFCON before, it’s an advantage for us,” he said.
Despite this optimism, Akuneto stressed that Finidi George and his squad should not underestimate Tunisia, calling them a significant threat due to their experience and squad strength.
“Tunisia, with their wealth of talent and experience, are definitely a major threat,” he emphasized.
Akuneto also warned against dismissing Uganda’s Cranes and Tanzania’s Taifa Stars, noting that modern football is unpredictable, and every team will be competitive with proper preparation.
“You cannot write off any team. With proper planning and preparation, they will be competitive as well,” he concluded.
Nigeria, a three-time AFCON champion, previously lifted the trophy in 1980 as hosts, in 1994 on Tunisian soil, and in 2013 in South Africa. As they prepare for the 2025 edition, the Super Eagles will aim to add a fourth title to their illustrious history.