Fulham trio Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze have expressed strong confidence in the Super Eagles’ chances of clinching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in Morocco, as Nigeria look to bounce back from recent disappointments and reclaim continental glory.

Nigeria finished as runners-up in the last edition of the tournament and are targeting a fourth AFCON crown, especially after failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

Speaking during an exclusive interview with Fulham TV, the players highlighted their individual growth, team maturity, and renewed determination to go all the way this time.

Reflecting on his evolution as a player since the last AFCON, defender Calvin Bassey said the squad has undergone significant growth.

“Yeah 100%. I think the last AFCON I was 23. I have matured and a lot of the team have matured and we have gained a lot of experience. So, it would be good for the team and Alex different roles now, he is becoming more of the leadership role,” Bassey said. 

In agreement, midfielder Alex Iwobi stressed the importance of continuous improvement and the team’s ambition to take the final step.

“Basically, what he is trying to say is that anywhere you go, you always want to improve, so the only way we can improve is by winning it,” Iwobi added. 

Winger Samuel Chukwueze injected humour into the conversation while emphasising his belief in the team’s potential. 

“So the first one was third place, the second one was Round of 16, and the third one was, I hope the fourth one, Calvin Bassey will help us, if he decides to pass the ball to me, I think we will win it,” he joked. 

Nigeria will kick off their AFCON campaign in Group C against Tanzania on December 23, before facing Tunisia on December 27.

The Super Eagles will wrap up the group stage with a clash against Uganda on December 30.

With the team eager to start on a positive note, manager Eric Chelle will be hoping for a strong response when Nigeria take on the Taifa Stars at the Fez Stadium on Tuesday. 

The Eagles are looking to regain confidence following their defeat to Egypt in a warm-up match at the Cairo International Stadium.

Adeyemi Adewale