Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has attributed his impressive form for Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to the strong bond and unity within the Super Eagles squad. 

The 29-year-old has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the biennial tournament, playing a key role in midfield and influencing the build-up to almost all of the team’s goals.

Iwobi’s performances have earned him the tag of the tournament’s leading pre-assist provider among Super Eagles fans. 

His composure and intelligence on the ball have also helped Nigeria dictate play and maintain control in the majority of their matches so far at the tournament.

Speaking during a press conference, the former Everton man said the sense of brotherhood within the team has allowed him to express himself fully on the pitch.

"For me, I think the difference is the sense of brotherhood and family we created for each other," he said. 

He explained that while the Super Eagles showed promise at previous AFCON tournaments, the squad was still developing at the time. 

"Of course the previous AFCON, we have done really well, the team have been so strong but at the same time we were young and learning about each other," he added. 

"I think right about now everybody is entering their prime, everybody is doing well respectively for their clubs and you can see the joy."

"And the chemistry that we have when we are playing for our country. I mean, it is just on the pitch but also off the pitch."

Iwobi added that the unity within the camp, driven by both the players and the coaching staff, has been crucial to Nigeria’s success

"There is a big family. It starts from the coach and the players as well. He has brought that brotherhood and it's nice because we are one big family," he said. 

"And you can see on the pitch because we fight for each other. I feel like that's bringing the best not just in me but all the players."

Nigeria have been impressive at the AFCON, recording five wins, scoring 14 goals and conceding just four to reach the final four of the tournament.

The Super Eagles will now face hosts Morocco in the semi-final on Wednesday, with the former Everton midfielder expected to play another pivotal role as Nigeria battle for a place in the AFCON final.

Iwobi will be keen to deliver a top performance to help the Super Eagles book a place in the final and keep their hopes of securing a fourth AFCON title alive.

Adeyemi Adewale