Peter Ijeh urges Super Eagles to turn World Cup disappointment into AFCON 2025 motivation

Former Nigeria international Peter Ijeh has urged the Super Eagles to use their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as fuel to inspire a dominant run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Nigeria’s World Cup dream ended heartbreakingly after a 4-3 penalty shootout to defeat DR Congo, sealing their absence from the global showpiece for the second consecutive time.

Speaking on Brila FM, Ijeh encouraged the players to quickly shift their focus from the painful elimination and channel their energy towards continental success.

He said, “Missing next year’s World Cup should be a motivating factor for Super Eagles players to go and win the AFCON.”

He stressed that the chance for redemption lies in Morocco, where Nigeria will aim to claim their fourth AFCON title.

Ijeh reminded the squad that the Africa Cup of Nations provides a fresh opportunity to restore pride and regain momentum.

“The AFCON is another opportunity for the players to make amends because what has gone has gone; there is nothing they can do about it. I believe the players have the mentality and mindset and must focus on what is ahead," he added.

The Super Eagles came close to continental glory at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, narrowly losing 2-1 to the hosts in the final. With the core of that squad still intact, expectations remain high ahead of the 2025 tournament.