Eric Chelle during Super Eagles clash against Jamaica. Copyright: Imago
The former Lazio star urges Nigeria’s Class of 2025 to ignore doubters and give everything as they head to Morocco….
Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi believes Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) squad can recreate the spirit of the 2013 champions, Soccernet.ng reports.
The former Nigerian international urge the players to embrace the challenge and make the country proud in Morocco.
As usual, Eric Chelle has come under fire in the Nigerian football scene for his player omissions and squad selections for the 2025 AFCON tournament.
Meanwhile, Onazi, who lifted the title in South Africa 12 years ago, has drawn striking parallels between Stephen Keshi’s youthful squad and the current team selected by head coach Chelle.
With several new faces—including Ryan Alebiosu, Tochukwu Nnadi, and Salim Fago Lawal—many Nigerians have questioned the team’s readiness. But Onazi insists this is exactly the type of situation that can produce champions.
“Just like our team in 2013, we had many new players who made people not believe in us, We knew we had a huge task in front of us, and we decided to give it our best. We were able to lift the title. I expect the same from this set of players.” he told Footy Africa.
Speaking further, the former Super Eagles star urged the squad to block out external noise and focus on the badge.
“Forget about what anyone thinks and go hard, real hard, to try and win the title. Once you wear that jersey, it does not matter when you play. What matters is your heart.”
The midfielder, capped 52 times for Nigeria, reminded the players of the responsibility they carry heading into Morocco.
“Give your all to the team and remember that you are representing the whole of Nigeria. More than 200 million people are looking up to you. Just do your best and leave everything on the pitch.”
Onazi’s rallying call comes as Nigeria prepare to face Egypt in a friendly on 16 December before moving to Fès for their AFCON Group C battles against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.