Former Super Eagles forward Tijani Babangida has expressed optimism about Nigeria’s attacking options ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), but stressed that the team’s success will depend heavily on a strong midfield. 

Speaking to Tribal Football, Babangida praised the attacking options of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, Samuel Chukwueze and others.

“Having Osimhen, Boniface, Sadiq, Lookman and Chukwueze appears to be very good on paper,” he said.

However, Babangida highlighted a recurring problem that has hampered the Super Eagles in previous outings: a lack of midfield support. 

“If the midfielders are up to task, then these attackers will do well. I still remember the game against Congo, the midfield of Super Eagles was very poor and there was no supply of balls to the attackers from the second half,” he added. 

“Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi played to defend the team, instead of launching attacks from the midfield and the fullbacks did more defending than joining the attack in the game.”

The 1996 Olympics gold medalist stressed that a balanced and creative midfield is critical for Nigeria to maximize its attacking potential.

“Super Eagles need a very strong midfield to bring out the best in the attackers,” Babangida said. 

Babangida also expressed optimism about new midfield additions called up by head coach Eric Chelle, suggesting that the fresh faces could be pivotal in strengthening Nigeria’s engine room.

“I think new midfielders invited by Chelle can make the midfield very strong in the tournament. I am very happy with the invitation of these players and I think some of them will make the team and make Super Eagles stronger in the tournament,” he concluded. 

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania, as they aim to claim their fourth continental title in Morocco.

Head coach Eric Chelle has released a 54-man provisional squad to begin preparations for the tournament, featuring new midfield additions such as Pisa’s Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, among others.

The Malian tactician will be seeking to select a vibrant and competitive squad capable of delivering a strong performance at the tournament, aiming to compensate for missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Adeyemi Adewale