By Olanrewaju Akojede
Lagos, Dec. 23, 2025
Shina Philips, President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, has issued a clarion call to the national team, asserting that victory at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco is the essential salve for the still-fresh wound of Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) following the Super Eagles’ opening 2-1 win over Tanzania, Philips framed the continental tournament as a critical mission of national redemption. “The disappointment of missing the World Cup was profound for every Nigerian football lover,” Philips stated. “Our expectations were sky-high, and the letdown was significant. In that context, AFCON is no longer just another tournament; it is our consolation prize, and winning it is the only form of compensation that will truly resonate with the nation.”
The opening victory, secured by goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman (both assisted by Alex Iwobi), provided a foundation but not complete satisfaction for the football administrator. Philips pointedly noted that the performance level must rise. “A 2-1 win against Tanzania is a take-off point, but it is not enough to signal true championship intent. We must be more dominant and assertive to show our global pedigree. There were defensive lapses—a bit of wobbliness and miscommunication—that stronger opponents will ruthlessly exploit.”
Philips elaborated on the deeper stakes, moving beyond fan sentiment to the commercial and reputational damage inflicted by the World Cup qualification failure. “Nigeria is a huge, sellable football brand on the world stage,” he explained. “Our absence from the World Cup damages that brand immensely. Therefore, conquering Africa is not just about silverware; it’s a strategic imperative to loudly reaffirm our place among football’s elite nations. The vengeance for missing the World Cup must be wholly transferred to and unleashed at AFCON.”
He expressed cautious optimism in the new technical direction under coach Eric Chelle, observing a positive shift. “We are seeing the attempts of the new coach to extract the best from this squad. The players are gradually building a technical and tactical blend, which is crucial.” However, Philips emphasized that the squad’s undeniable talent must be matched by an unquenchable competitive fire. “There must be a burning desire, a palpable hunger that was perhaps missing in the final two years ago. Reaching the final is not enough; that experience was disappointing. This time, it must be about a resounding resurgence, culminating in bringing the trophy home.”
To achieve this, Philips called for a more ruthless edge in attack. “Our forwards must play with hunger—taking responsibility for shots from inside and outside the box, converting half-chances. Complacency cannot be an option.” He also issued a stern warning about the challenge ahead, particularly regarding the host nation. “We cannot underestimate Morocco. They are a world-class side, and the energy of being hosts adds another formidable dimension. This tournament will be a definitive assessment for the coach and this generation of players.”
In his concluding remarks, Philips set the unequivocal benchmark for success. “We cannot aim for anything less than the final. Optimistically, I believe we have the quality and the spirit. The best compensation for a nation yearning for footballing joy is for the Super Eagles to return from Morocco as African champions. That is the only outcome that can truly compensate for the World Cup dream that was deferred.”
(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
KOJE/KTO
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
