Onazi Urges Super Eagles to Stay Focused and Win AFCON 2026

Former Nigeria midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has called on the Super Eagles to remain focused and deliver the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2026, warning that it would be shameful for a squad of such calibre to fall short.

Onazi, who lifted the trophy in 2013, believes the current generation must seize the moment and write their names into the country’s football history. His comments come as Nigeria prepare for a crucial quarter-final clash against Algeria in Marrakech this Saturday.

A Call for Discipline and Unity

“The Super Eagles of this generation need to win the AFCON title for themselves. It will be a bit shameful for players of this calibre in the squad to not touch the AFCON trophy,” Onazi told PUNCH Sports Extra.

He urged the team to avoid distractions, particularly after the recent on-field altercation between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s 4-0 victory over Mozambique.

Federation and Team Response

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the matter was swiftly resolved. Team Administrator Dayo Enebi described it as “a crisis between two brothers” that was settled within hours.

Head Coach Eric Chelle echoed the sentiment, stressing that unity is vital as the team heads into the knockout stages. “What happens on the pitch stays in the group. My job is to keep the players focused,” he said.

Competitive Spirit, Not Division

Captain Wilfred Ndidi downplayed the incident, framing it as competitive spirit. “It was just a competitive mindset. We wanted more, we agreed we wanted more. In that moment, when two people really want it, this is what happens. Of course, we spoke about it in the dressing room, everything is fine. Everyone is in this together,” he told ESPN.

Nigeria’s Perfect Run

Nigeria have been flawless so far, winning all four matches, scoring 12 goals and conceding none. Their next test comes against Algeria, who edged DR Congo 1-0 in extra time.

The Super Eagles last lifted the AFCON in 2013 and are chasing a fourth continental crown, having previously triumphed in 1980 and 1994.

Why It Matters Now

With the team in peak form and unity restored, expectations are high. Onazi’s rallying cry underlines the importance of focus and discipline as Nigeria aim to end a 13-year wait for Africa’s biggest prize.