Former Super Eagles captain and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Segun Odegbami, has urged the Nigerian national team to approach their quarter-final clash against Algeria with confidence, authority and a winning mentality.
Odegbami delivered the message as the Super Eagles prepare for Saturday’s encounter in Marrakesh, Morocco, insisting that belief remains the biggest factor that separates winners from losers at international level.
Legend says belief will decide Algeria clash
The football legend said Nigeria’s players must move beyond individual brilliance and play as a dominant unit if they are to progress further in the tournament.
“It is about confidence, it is about belief that you can do it. You know, the difference between football in countries is not much. From match to match, when you look at them, what makes you win is so small,” he said.
Ex-captain backs Eagles to dominate at AFCON
The former winger explained that when teams step onto the pitch with belief, the game often becomes easier, as opponents can sense fear or hesitation.
He noted that playing with confidence allows players to express themselves, make better decisions and impose their style on the opposition.
“With the quality that we have, with our history and the numbers that we have, no country in Africa should be struggling with us, from competition to competition,” Odegbami said.
The 1980 AFCON hero also highlighted Nigeria’s long list of world-class players, past and present, as evidence that the Super Eagles have the depth to dominate any team on the continent.
He pointed to recent stars such as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, as well as former greats who never won Africa’s Player of the Year, to underline the country’s consistent production of elite talent.
Odegbami added that when the Super Eagles play without fear, victories usually come naturally and are earned, not gifted.
He urged the team to entertain fans, dominate possession and approach the game with the mindset of champions.