Amun advises Super Eagles to focus on World Cup 2026 qualifications and forget AFCON 2023
The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team, have been advised by former Nigerian international, Emmanuel Amunike, to prioritize their efforts towards qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and forget about the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2023.
Amunike, who played for the Super Eagles during the 1994 FIFA World Cup, believes that the team should set their sights on the long-term goal of participating in the World Cup rather than diverting their attention to AFCON 2023. He argues that the World Cup is a more prestigious and globally recognized tournament, and success in such a competition would bring greater recognition and opportunities for Nigerian football.
The former Barcelona winger emphasized the importance of planning ahead and building a strong foundation for future success. He believes that by focusing on the World Cup qualifications, the Super Eagles can develop a more competitive team capable of making a significant impact on the global stage.
Amunike also highlighted the fact that the Super Eagles have a relatively young squad with promising talents who could mature and reach their peak by the time the 2026 World Cup arrives. He urged the team to invest in these young players and provide them with the necessary support and guidance to ensure their development.
While AFCON is undoubtedly an important tournament for African nations, Amunike argues that it should not be the sole focus for Nigerian football. He believes that by prioritizing the World Cup qualifications, the Super Eagles can elevate their game to a higher level and compete against stronger opponents from around the world.
Amunike’s advice comes at a time when Nigerian football is undergoing a transition phase, with new talents emerging and older players gradually phasing out. By focusing on long-term goals, such as the World Cup, the Super Eagles can ensure a smooth transition and maintain their competitiveness in international football.
It is worth noting that Nigeria has a strong footballing history, having qualified for the World Cup six times and winning the AFCON title three times. However, the team has struggled to replicate their past successes in recent years, failing to qualify for the 2017 AFCON and facing early exits in subsequent tournaments.
Amunike’s advice serves as a reminder to the Super Eagles that they should not settle for mediocrity but aim for greatness. By focusing on the World Cup qualifications and building a strong team, Nigeria can once again become a force to be reckoned with in international football.
In conclusion, Emmanuel Amunike’s advice to the Super Eagles to prioritize their efforts towards qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and forget about AFCON 2023 is a strategic approach to ensure long-term success. By investing in young talents and focusing on the more prestigious World Cup, Nigeria can elevate its footballing standards and compete against the best teams in the world.
