Kaita urges Eagles to turn W’Cup pain into AFCON drive

Former Super Eagles midfielder Sani Kaita has called upon Nigeria to transform their World Cup disappointment into a drive for qualification at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to PUNCH Sports Extra. Kaita is confident that the Eagles possess the necessary talent to secure a spot in the continental tournament and challenge for the title when it is hosted in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

"As Nigerians, we expect the Super Eagles to demonstrate their strength and qualify for the AFCON. We have the quality to do so, and we should channel the disappointment of missing the World Cup into motivation," Kaita stated.

Nigeria will commence their qualifying campaign on September 25 against Madagascar in Uyo, followed by a match against Guinea-Bissau on September 29. The team is placed in Group L alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and co-host Tanzania, who are already assured of a place at the tournament. Kaita, who played for Nigeria in the 2010 World Cup and the 2006 and 2010 AFCON tournaments, emphasizes that qualification should not be the sole objective for the Eagles.

"Qualifying is just the starting point. Nigeria has the quality to compete for the AFCON title, and that should be the ultimate goal," he added.

The Eagles will kick off their new competitive cycle under the guidance of coach Eric Chelle, and Kaita hopes that the disappointment of missing the World Cup will serve as the driving force for a robust AFCON qualifying campaign and a serious bid for the continental crown.