Three-time AFCON champions Super Eagles of Nigeria are not popular favourites to win the 2025 AFCON, but former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho said the team have the quality to defy the odds in Morocco.
The Portuguese tactician said Nigeria have abundant talents but need to stay focused to be African champions again.
“AFCON is simple to win, the team that suffers together will lift the trophy,” Mourinho said.
“Nigeria have too much talents, speed flair, confidence but the question is always the mentality.
“If Nigeria stay focused and united, nobody wants to face them.”
Mourinho crowned hosts Morocco his top favourites to be champions on home soil.
“Let me be very clear, AFCON is not about names, is about mentality if you don’t suffer you don’t win,” he explained.
“Number 1 is Morocco, they are organised, disciplined and now they believe, when a team believe they become dangerous, they showed the world in Qatar they are competitors.
“Number two is Senegal, the physical power, experience and balance, they have them all.
“Senegal know how to win ugly games and that’s how tournaments are won. They don’t panic, they wait, then kill the game.”
