Fulham trio Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze have expressed strong confidence in the Super Eagles’ chances of clinching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in Morocco, as Nigeria look to bounce back from recent disappointments and reclaim continental glory.
Nigeria finished as runners-up in the last edition of the tournament and are targeting a fourth AFCON crown, especially after failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with Fulham TV, the players highlighted their individual growth, team maturity, and renewed determination to go all the way this time.
Reflecting on his evolution as a player since the last AFCON, defender Calvin Bassey said the squad has undergone significant growth.
“Yeah 100%. I think the last AFCON I was 23. I have matured and a lot of the team have matured and we have gained a lot of experience. So, it would be good for the team and Alex different roles now, he is becoming more of the leadership role,” Bassey said.
In agreement, midfielder Alex Iwobi stressed the importance of continuous improvement and the team’s ambition to take the final step.
“Basically, what he is trying to say is that anywhere you go, you always want to improve, so the only way we can improve is by winning it,” Iwobi added.
Winger Samuel Chukwueze injected humour into the conversation while emphasising his belief in the team’s potential.
“So the first one was third place, the second one was Round of 16, and the third one was, I hope the fourth one, Calvin Bassey will help us, if he decides to pass the ball to me, I think we will win it,” he joked.
Nigeria will kick off their AFCON campaign in Group C against Tanzania on December 23, before facing Tunisia on December 27.
The Super Eagles will wrap up the group stage with a clash against Uganda on December 30.
With the team eager to start on a positive note, manager Eric Chelle will be hoping for a strong response when Nigeria take on the Taifa Stars at the Fez Stadium on Tuesday.
The Eagles are looking to regain confidence following their defeat to Egypt in a warm-up match at the Cairo International Stadium.
‘That’s going to hit them hard’ – Liverpool legend claims Fulham will face difficult period with Iwobi, Bassey and Chukwueze’s absence
Liverpool legend Michael Owen has cautioned that Fulham could face a difficult period with key players Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze set to represent Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The three players were instrumental in Fulham’s recent 3-2 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor, a landmark win that marked the club’s first away victory at the venue since 1951.
Bassey found the net in that match, while Chukwueze provided an assist, highlighting their importance to the squad before their temporary departure.
Their absence coincides with a demanding fixture schedule for Fulham, a situation Owen believes will test the depth of Marco Silva’s squad.
Owen speaks on Fulham players set for AFCON
Speaking on Premier League Productions about Bassey scoring before leaving for international duty, Owen noted the challenge ahead for the London club.
“It’s really interesting. Some teams are going to struggle more than others, or be more depleted than others,” Owen stated.
“Obviously, Fulham are losing three players; that’s going to hit them hard, but there are worse-off teams in the league.”
Iwobi has been a mainstay for the Cottagers this season, starting all 16 Premier League games, while Bassey has made 15 starts at centre-back.
Chukwueze, on loan from AC Milan, has also established himself as a regular starter after a series of impactful performances from the bench.
Should Nigeria, three-time AFCON champions, advance to the final, the trio could miss up to eight matches for Fulham.
This includes crucial fixtures against top-tier opponents like Chelsea, Liverpool, and Newcastle United, potentially impacting Fulham’s campaign in both the league and domestic cups.
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