Former Nigeria international and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner Segun Odegbami has expressed strong confidence ahead of the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 semi-final clash against hosts Morocco in Rabat.

Three-time AFCON champions Nigeria will face Morocco on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in a high-stakes semi-final encounter.

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Algeria Victory Rekindles Historic Memories

Nicknamed “Mathematical” during his playing career, Odegbami said Nigeria’s commanding 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria brought back memories of the country’s historic dominance on the continent four decades ago.

“It felt like March 22, 1980, all over again. History was echoing loudly in my head,” Odegbami said.

The former Eagles captain recalled Nigeria’s emphatic 3-0 win over Algeria at the 1980 AFCON, when the North Africans were widely regarded as Africa’s strongest side, achieved through intensity, discipline and fearless attacking football.

“Algeria were stunned then, just as they looked helpless again two days ago,” he noted.

Praise for Current Super Eagles Squad

Now 73, Odegbami praised the current Super Eagles for their authority, pace and total control against Algeria.

“They came out flying, dominating every department. Algeria did not threaten Nigeria’s goal until almost 80 minutes,” he said.

Odegbami, who earned 46 caps and scored 23 goals for Nigeria, described the performance as a masterclass that drained Algeria both physically and mentally.

“They were left confused, frustrated and searching for answers that never came,” he added.

Renewed Faith in Nigerian Football

According to Odegbami, the display has reignited his belief in Nigerian football.

“These Eagles have awakened my once-waning spirit. They are growing, game by game,” he said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s rich football heritage, Odegbami insisted the Super Eagles possess the talent and pedigree to command respect across Africa.

He pointed to the depth of quality within the squad, past and present, as proof of Nigeria’s enduring strength.

“With the quality that we have, with our history and the numbers that we have, no country in Africa should be struggling with us, from competition to competition,” he stated.

Morocco Crowd, But Confidence Remains

While acknowledging Morocco’s home advantage, Odegbami described the Rabat crowd as a major factor.

“They will have a 12th player, a loud army of supporters pushing them forward,” he said.

Nevertheless, he remains confident Nigeria can rise to the occasion.

“I see these Super Eagles soaring over the Atlas Mountains and writing another glorious chapter,” he added.