Ex‑Super Eagles Stars Say ‘Bronze Isn’t Enough’ After AFCON Semi‑Final Heartbreak

Two former Super Eagles greats have urged Nigeria’s national team to aim higher than a bronze medal at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after their narrow penalty shootout loss to hosts Morocco in the semifinals.

Veteran forward Etim Esin said the team “shouldn’t be settling for bronze” after reaching the AFCON final in 2023 and falling short this time around. He also spotlighted star players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, saying they needed to be more decisive in big moments.

Former defender Azubuike Egwuekwe echoed that view, calling a third‑place match against Egypt a “step backwards” for a squad expected to challenge for the title.

The Super Eagles have historically won a record eight bronze medals at AFCON but are now being challenged to push for silver or gold instead of settling for third place.