Bruno Onyemaechi has said the Super Eagles are fully prepared and united ahead of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 clash against Mozambique, stressing that readiness and patience remain key within the team.

Speaking before the knockout encounter, Onyemaechi underlined the competitive atmosphere in camp, noting that every player understands the demands placed by the coaching staff.

The left-back explained that selection is never guaranteed and that commitment is required from everyone in the squad.

When asked whether he expects to start, Onyemaechi told reporters in Morocco: “Everybody here is ready to go into the pitch when the coach calls him, like everyone everybody here don’t know if he’s going to play tomorrow or not,” 

He added that the emphasis is on being prepared at all times, stating: “But the most important thing is to be ready, know when you call upon you need to be 100 percent ready to take the opportunity that arises.”

The defender further highlighted the values being reinforced by Eric Chelle, pointing to hard work and patience as essential qualities.

“No, the most important thing is to work hard, you know, work hard and be patient to wait for your opportunity when they arrive,” he said.

Onyemaechi revealed that the coach has made it clear that opportunities will be shared across the squad, with competition seen as healthy.

“Like the coach said, you’re going to give everybody everyone here opportunities as can we are 28, when the opportunity arises, if you’re not ready, another person is ready to take over your positions,” he said.

He added that the message has been well received: “So this is what the coach tried to make us understand and we are ready for this opportunity.”

Turning attention to the opponents, Onyemaechi dismissed any suggestion of complacency, stressing that Mozambique pose a serious challenge.

“No, every team here is ready to win also. Mozambique is ready to win,” he said. “So we’re not talking about like Nigeria already won the game. Mozambique players also playing high level. So they are ready and also ready to fight against them.”

He acknowledged Mozambique’s strengths while emphasizing Nigeria’s focus on exploiting weaknesses. 

On defensive improvement, Onyemaechi confirmed the team has addressed recent lapses.

“The coach talked to us about this. We are looking forward to improving the situation. Like I said, whenever we are three goals up with 75 minutes gone, we concede goals.

“This time around, it’s the knockout stage. Even if we concede one, you can lose the game, so we are looking forward to improving this aspect and trying to get the clean sheet that is going to win us the game.”

The Super Eagles, who won all their group phase matches, will aim to maintain their flawless campaign when they face Mozambique on Monday.

Wale Adejumo