With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco just 19 days away, former Super Eagles star Obafemi Martins has urged the national team to maintain focus and strive for the ultimate glory.
Martins, the legendary striker, also drew comparisons between his own playing style and that of current player Ademola Lookman, praising the youngster’s “joy to watch” movements both on and off the ball.
“I love watching Ademola Lookman play, he is so quick and unpredictable in the final third. He is so calm like most professionals and focused on the job.
“With him, Osimhen, and the rest of the team, I see them going far in Morocco,” said the 2005/2006 Serie A winner in an exclusive chat with Persecondnews correspondent in Abuja.
The former international, who represented major clubs including VfL Wolfsburg, Inter Milan, and Newcastle United, is confident the Super Eagles possess the necessary talent and depth to win the tournament.
Martins, however, stressed that the team must move past their recent lapses in form and concentrate fully on the task ahead.
“The players understand the task at hand and they can’t allow the past setback to be an obstacle in the Nations Cup. They understand the job and they know what is at stake,” he added.
Nigeria, the three-time champions, enter the tournament as one of the favourites, boasting a sharp attacking line-up led by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi.
Persecondnews reports that their weak defence which contributed to their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, is a concern that needs to be addressed.
In Group C, the Super Eagles face a difficult path against Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The configuration of this group suggests early tournament drama, with the final outcome for the two qualifying positions remaining highly unpredictable.
Tunisia is spearheaded by experienced talent such as Wahbi Khazri, while Uganda’s Cranes have shown considerable improvement in recent years.
Tanzania, viewed as the surprise entry, is expected to seek major upsets.
To advance, the Super Eagles will rely heavily on the cohesion and performance of their key attacking trio – Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze.
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