Frank Onyeka has spoken about the Super Eagles' form at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, attributing the team's impressive run in the group stage to strong competition, collective responsibility and an unwavering desire to deliver success for Nigerians.

The FC Ebedei product has made just one appearance at the ongoing tournament in Morocco, playing for 79 minutes in the five-goal thriller against Tunisia. 

Onyeka played a key role in the latter stages of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, scoring a crucial goal against Benin before opening the scoring in Nigeria's heartbreaking loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final of the African playoffs. 

Reflecting on his personal form, Onyeka told Austin Okon Akpan: "I just try to play my game. I focus on every aspect of the game and try to give everything for the team. That's one thing about me – I love winning. For me, it's about expressing myself on the pitch.

Onyeka has been one of Nigeria's standout performers since the Unity Cup tournament last summer. 

Addressing his initial absence from the squad before that competition, the Brentford man insisted there were no hard feelings.

"No, I wasn't angry. It was the decision of the coach. It was the first time and he was trying to get the players, test the players and see what worked for him.

"I was happy when I got called up for the Unity Cup and I tried to show him what I could do. Since then, I thank God everything has been working out perfectly."

The central midfielder believes the intense competition for places within the squad has been crucial to Nigeria's success so far at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. 

"Yes, competition does more good for the team. There are many good players, especially in midfield, but also on the wings. It’s good for the team. 

"You see how good we are. Many players did not play against Uganda, but we still came out with a win. That shows we have really good players."

Despite finishing the group stage with a perfect nine points, Onyeka warned against complacency as the Super Eagles prepare for the round of 16 clash with Mozambique. 

"The mentality is strong. We had nine points in the group stage, but we don’t need to lose focus. We need to stay calm and focus on the next round, on ourselves, not just the opponents."

When asked what has driven the steady improvement within the team, Onyeka said: "The players, not just the coach, because we take responsibility for the things we need to do to get better. That’s why I feel we, the players, took that responsibility."

He also admitted that Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup has served as added motivation.

"Yes, that plays a big part. We want to show Nigerians that even though we didn't qualify, we want to give them this trophy so they have something to cheer about.

"Our focus is to take it one game at a time. The next game is more important than thinking about the quarterfinals."

Onyeka also provided a positive fitness update after picking up a knock during the match against Tunisia.

"I have been training. I was on the bench yesterday, but I'm training this morning. 

Looking ahead to the round of 16 clash against Mozambique, Onyeka expects nothing different from the Super Eagles' approach.

"The same thing. Nothing will change. We’ll come out with full energy, give everything and, by God’s grace, get the win and qualify for the next round."

Finally, the midfielder underlined that Nigeria's resurgence is built on a blend of player commitment and coaching expertise.

"I think it's both. The players are really committed, and the coaching staff too. Everyone wants to win this AFCON and make sure we get something for Nigerians."