The upcoming AFCON is scheduled to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, across several Moroccan cities. For Nwabali, it represents both unfinished business and a chance at redemption following Nigeria’s painful loss to hosts Ivory Coast in the 2023 final.
“AFCON is one of the biggest tournaments in the world, not just in Africa,” Nwabali said during an interview on SuperSport TV. “As a big nation, we are always expected to win, not just to participate. Playing the final last year, I feel this year we are going to win it.”
The Chippa United shot-stopper, who emerged as one of Nigeria’s standout performers during the 2023 tournament, believes the team’s experience in reaching the final has strengthened their mentality and tactical maturity.
Aiming for a Fourth Continental Title
Nigeria last lifted the AFCON trophy in 2013 under the late Stephen Keshi, adding to previous triumphs in 1980 and 1994. With a squad boasting top players across Europe, many fans see 2025 as a prime opportunity for a new generation of Super Eagles to write their names in history.
Nwabali, now firmly established as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, was widely praised for his composure and reflexes in Ivory Coast. His performances were key to Nigeria’s deep run, earning him national hero status.
However, his recent outings have not been without criticism. Some fans and pundits have pointed to occasional errors, time-wasting habits, and disciplinary lapses during World Cup qualifying matches — moments that nearly cost the Super Eagles valuable points.
Eyes on AFCON, but World Cup Qualifiers Come First
Before Morocco 2025, Nigeria faces another crucial challenge — the African playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Coach Eric Chelle is expected to announce his squad soon, with Nwabali likely to face competition from Maduka Okoye of Udinese, who is set for a return to the national team setup.
For Nwabali, though, the focus remains clear: the Super Eagles must turn lessons from past disappointments into motivation for future glory.
“We know what it takes now,” he said. “We’ve been there before, and this time, we want to finish the job.”
If his optimism reflects the team’s mindset, Nigeria’s road to a fourth AFCON title could yet turn into one of the most inspiring comeback stories in recent memory.