Eagles
By Iyunade Grace
Burkina Faso’s technical director, Vincenzo Alberto Annese, has predicted that Nigeria will lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy, citing Victor Osimhen as the tournament’s standout striker. Annese described Osimhen as the “biggest threat in the whole tournament” and praised Nigeria’s offensive firepower, placing them alongside Ivory Coast as top contenders.
Annese’s comments come ahead of Nigeria’s quarter-final clash with Algeria, where Osimhen will look to lead the charge. The Super Eagles have been impressive so far, netting 12 goals in the tournament, with Osimhen and Ademola Lookman accounting for half of those goals.
Osimhen, who has 34 goals for Nigeria, is just three strikes shy of equalling Rashidi Yekini’s record as the country’s all-time top scorer. Annese believes Osimhen is the strongest center-forward in the tournament, stating, “When Osimhen leaves, Nigeria really changes face.
Nigeria’s recent near-misses, including missing out on World Cup qualification, could serve as motivation for a deep AFCON run. Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan also backs Nigeria, citing their strong squad and attacking prowess.
The Super Eagles face Algeria in the quarter-finals, and if they win, they’ll take on the winner of Morocco vs Cameroon in the semi-finals. Burkina Faso’s coach isn’t alone in predicting Nigeria’s success; Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan and Nigeria sports journalist Idowu Ojomu also believe the team has what it takes to win.
