Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has tipped host nation Morocco as one of the leading contenders for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, while expressing confidence that Nigeria has what it takes to challenge for the title.

Speaking in an interview with Football Fans Tribe, Osimhen praised the quality and depth of the Moroccan squad. 

“I think the host. They have really big qualities,” he said. “I am also looking at some other countries but you know this is Africa, you can't really predict because anybody can come and shock you, so I think just like us and the host, I think there are other favourites but I think Nigeria and Super Eagles to go all the way.”

The Galatasaray forward added that the upcoming AFCON represents a crucial opportunity for Nigeria to redeem themselves after the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“This AFCON also is a very big opportunity for us to try and rectify a lot of things for our own self also not just for the fans,” he stated. “And I think we will give our everything to make sure we actualize the dream.”

“I thank Super Eagles fans all over the world. We want to use this opportunity at AFCON to try and make up for so many disappointments and we will use everything we have to make sure they are happy.”

Osimhen revealed that the atmosphere in camp has been positive, with the players focused on fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the continental showpiece.

“Good vibe is in the camp. We are preparing well. Just like you are seeing here. The team is ready. We have some shortcomings in the previous games and I want to use the opportunity to thank Super Eagles fans all over the world for their support, we really appreciate them,” he said. 

On adapting to Morocco’s weather conditions, the forward noted that the players are already familiar with the environment, having played in the country during the World Cup qualifiers.

“It is cold here but we were here before during the World Cup qualifiers, so we know the kind of weather we will meet but I think many of us play in Europe and we know it is colder than this place, for me it is normal and just keep going.”

Osimhen also spoke highly of newly appointed captain Wilfred Ndidi, praising the midfielder’s leadership qualities and commending his growth under former captain William Troost-Ekong.

“Wilfred is one of the leaders even when Ekong was our captain, I think he has also learned a lot from Ekong because Ekong is one of the best captains since I arrived here alongside Mikel Obi and Musa,” he said. 

“I am happy he was given the captaincy and for me it is just to support him, all of us, not just the assistants, not just Simon.”

“Everyone of us will support him because he is a good guy on and off the pitch. You know even on the pitch he gives his all. I think he deserves it and all of us go rally around him to help him on and off the pitch, so I am happy for him.”

Nigeria will kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign in Group C against Tanzania on December 23, before facing Tunisia on December 27. They will round off the group stage against Uganda on December 30.

The Super Eagles are seeking their fourth continental title, having last won the tournament in 2013.

Adeyemi Adewale