AFCON 2025: Awoniyi wants strong start for Eagles

Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest FC  of England striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, said that he and his teammates would love to start the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco on a strong note.

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He said that the Eagles have what it takes to start strong  and even do better after qualifying at the tournament proper.

Awoniyi said this on Friday in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN),  ahead of the  2025 AFCON  qualifier against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic on Saturday in Uyo.

“For us, it is something big when it comes to playing for the Super Eagles. I think we have what it takes to win every game in Africa.

“It is just about putting everything together and playing for the country with pride,” Awoniyi said.

Awoniyi returns to the Super Eagles after months of absence due to an injury he sustained during Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

The striker who expressed happiness over his return, said that the player called up deserved a place in the starting lineup.

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“I can say it is an opportunity to play for the Super Eagles and a great privilege for that matter for everyone of us.

“Everyone called up is excited about it and I believe each and everyone is going to give their best for the country,” he said.

He said that he was  not getting a regular starting position in his club because of his long absence due to injury.

“At least I am playing week in, week out, with that, I will get to see more playing time.

“You must understand that we have lots of quality players and everyone deserves a place in the team,” Awoniyi said.

NAN reports that the Super