Speaking in a press conference today ahead of Nigeria's opening game against Equatorial Guinea tomorrow, Ahmed Musa the Super Eagles captain stated his desire to win the Africa Cup of Nations trophy again.
Musa won his first-ever AFCON title with the Super Eagles when late Stephen Keshi led Nigeria to AFCON glory ten years ago in South Africa.
The legendary Nigerian footballer played a crucial part in that AFCON success and now wants his last participation at the continental tournament to end in similar fashion as Nigeria battles the biggest teams in Ivory Coast this weekend.
“It is my big dream to win the AFCON again and also as a captain,” Musa said.
The 31-year-old also spoke about his retirement from the national team and the effect the social media space can have on footballers.
“No human can predict tomorrow, we shall see what happens next.”
Nigerians were not happy Musa was included in the 25-man Super Eagles squad for AFCON 2023, and the social space became an avenue where fans and pundits alike expressed their views on the player's continued place in the team.
“Social media does not affect me, it motivates me. I had a meeting with the players yesterday night and we discussed concentration on the games,” Musa continued.
Ahmed Musa wants Nigerians to believe in the Super Eagles
With expectations high on the team to deliver a fourth AFCON trophy, the Super Eagles players are feeling the heat.
Blessed with an array of attacking stars, Nigeria are one of the favorites to lift the title in Ivory Coast.
However, with several key members of the squad ruled out of the tournament due to injuries, there's a feeling of anxiety by fans on the team's chances of going all the way.
But Musa is positive about the team, urging fans to believe. He said:
“We just want the fans and Nigerians to believe in us.”
Ahmed Musa on goalkeepers in camp
Aware of how Nigerians have expressed dissatisfaction about Francis Uzoho being first-choice goalkeeper, and the general quality of players in the goalkeeping department, Musa said:
“If you don't believe in us, it is your opinion. We believe in ourselves and we will work hard. We trust the goalkeepers and all the players in camp.”
As Nigeria’s most capped player with 109 appearances for the Super Eagles, Musa will be eager to contribute his quota when called upon in the competition.
Jose Peseiro will lead his team against Equatorial Guinea in their Group A opening match tomorrow.
The action will unfold at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan and the Eagles will look to start the tournament on a good note.
This article was most recently revised and updated 8 months ago
