Alex Iwobi says unity and togetherness within the Super Eagles squad have been the driving force behind Nigeria’s flawless run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria head into Wednesday’s semi-final against hosts Morocco having won all five of their matches, scoring a tournament-high 14 goals and establishing themselves as leading contenders for the title.
Speaking ahead of the last-four tie at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Fulham midfielder said the team’s success has been built on strong relationships rather than tactical complexity.
“For me, it is the family environment we have created, the brotherhood within the team. Everyone cares about how the other feels, we are united and all pushing in the same direction” he said.
Alex Iwobi has two assists in 4 matches for the Super Eagles at the AFCON 2025. Photo Credit: Getty Images
The Super Eagles victories over Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Mozambique and Algeria have carried them into the semi-finals, while also setting a new national record for goals scored in a single AFCON campaign.
Iwobi has played a central role in midfield as Nigeria have combined attacking efficiency with greater control and maturity throughout the tournament.
The 29-year-old believes the foundations for the current run were laid at the previous Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria reached the final with a younger squad.
“From the previous AFCON, we performed very well, we were a bit young, but now everyone is entering their prime and performing well both at club level and for the national team.”
Alex Iwobi is having a storming tournament in Morocco. Photo Credit: CAF
Nigeria’s goal tally in Morocco has already surpassed their previous best return of 12 goals, set during the 2000 tournament.
Iwobi also suggested that disappointment at failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup has sharpened the squad’s focus.
“Obviously we wanted to qualify for the World Cup, but it did not happen, we are trying to use that disappointment as a push factor for ourselves and our country.”
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Away from the pitch, Iwobi has been sharing video diaries from Nigeria’s camp, offering supporters an insight into life within the squad.
“My intention was to control my narrative, people see the football side, but we are equally human. There are lots of personalities, but when we go to the pitch, we fight and give our best.”
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Nigeria face Morocco on Wednesday evening, with the winners advancing to Sunday’s final, where either Senegal or Egypt await.
