The Super Eagles will be heading into the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 with a renewed sense of optimism, largely thanks to the exciting form of Victor Osimhen, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze.
Their recent performances for club sides in Turkey and England suggest Nigeria possesses a core group capable of shouldering the responsibility of bringing home a fourth continental crown.
Victor Osimhen and his ruthless efficiency keeps Super Eagles hopes high
Osimhen continues to prove why he is Nigeria’s leading striker. His goal for Galatasaray in their 4–1 win over Antalyaspor shows not just his sharp movement in the box but also his clinical finishing under minimal touches.
With 12 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions—including six in the Champions League—the 26-year-old is carrying a striking form that gives the Super Eagles a genuine edge in attack.
Efficiency has been Osimhen’s hallmark this season. Despite registering just 25 touches during the match, he remained decisive and lethal in front of goal.
Such performances provide Nigeria with a reliable scoring outlet, a crucial factor in tournaments where moments of individual brilliance often decide outcomes.
Bassey, Chukwueze add defensive and creative balance
Calvin Bassey has similarly demonstrated readiness for AFCON duty. The 25-year-old defender scored his first goal of the season for Fulham against Burnley, complementing an exceptional defensive display that included 11 duels won.
His blend of physicality, composure, and timing shows the defensive ability he brings to the Super Eagles, addressing previous concerns in central and wide defensive positions.
Meanwhile, Samuel Chukwueze continues to deliver attacking flair. With six goal contributions across eight appearances this season, he provides pace, creativity, and decisive final passes.
His influence at club level highlights his ability to supply strikers like Osimhen and stretch opposing defences, making him an invaluable piece in Nigeria’s attacking puzzle.
Together, these three players form a compelling unit. Osimhen offers finishing power, Bassey ensures defensive stability, and Chukwueze injects creativity and width.
Their collective form hints that Nigeria could enter AFCON 2025 not just with talent but with a team ready to lead, inspire, and challenge for the title.
As the countdown to the tournament continues, Eric Chelle will be able to rely on their sharpness to set the tone for the Super Eagles’ campaign.
If they maintain their current form, they could be central to Nigeria claiming its fourth AFCON crown.
Nigeria will kick off with a friendly schedule against Egypt on Tuesday, followed by their AFCON opener against Tanzania a week later, before tackling Tunisia and Uganda over the coming weeks.
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