The Super Eagles of Nigeria have not only impressed on the pitch but have also convinced the data analysts, as a leading supercomputer has dramatically revised their chances of lifting the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy in Morocco.
From Outsiders to Serious Contenders
Before the tournament kicked off, Nigeria's prospects were viewed with caution. Despite fielding a squad brimming with talent, including former African Footballers of the Year Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, and arriving as runners-up from the 2023 edition, they were not among the top favourites.
Opta's supercomputer initially gave the Super Eagles just a 7.3% probability of becoming champions, ranking them fifth behind powerhouses like Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, and Algeria. Their tough Group C draw with Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania further complicated matters, with only a 42.9% chance projected for them to finish top.
Flawless Performance Forces a Rethink
Nigeria responded to the doubts with a commanding and perfect group stage campaign. The team secured three consecutive victories, amassing nine points and scoring eight goals to top their group convincingly.
This dominant display forced Opta's analytical model to recalculate. The Super Eagles' odds of winning AFCON 2025 have now jumped to 10.09%, marking a significant increase as the tournament enters the decisive knockout phase. This upgrade reflects the team's on-pitch authority and has firmly reinstated them into the championship conversation.
A Daunting Knockout Path Awaits
Despite the improved forecast, Nigeria's journey to a potential fourth AFCON title remains exceptionally challenging. Their Round of 16 clash is against a dangerous Mozambique side, the strongest of the third-placed qualifiers, who have nothing to lose.
Should they advance, the hurdles grow taller. A potential quarterfinal against either DR Congo or Algeria looms, with DR Congo having recently eliminated Nigeria from World Cup qualification. The difficulty doesn't end there, as the same side of the draw contains hosts Morocco, Cameroon, and South Africa, making it arguably the toughest route to the final.
The supercomputer's revised odds underscore a renewed belief in the Super Eagles' credentials, even as they navigate this perilous path. The team, backed by the mandate of the Nigeria Football Federation to win and even receiving support from renowned coach Jose Mourinho, has transformed from a question mark into a formidable threat at AFCON 2025.
