As Nigeria stormed by way of Group C of AFCON 2025 with an ideal 9 factors, pleasure amongst followers has been matched with cautious reflection. Historical past means that profitable all three group-stage matches has typically include an sudden value.
Softfootball highlights earlier AFCON editions the place dominant group-stage groups suffered stunning Spherical of 16 exits. In 2019, hosts Egypt received all three matches however crashed out early. Nigeria repeated the identical destiny in 2021, whereas Senegal adopted go well with in 2023 after a flawless group marketing campaign.
Now in 2025, Algeria have already accomplished a robust group stage and face DR Congo within the Spherical of 16. Nigeria, alternatively, will tackle Mozambique on January 5 after defeating Tanzania (2–1), Tunisia (3–2), and Uganda (3–1).
The so-called “9-point curse” raises an essential query: will historical past repeat itself, or can the Tremendous Eagles rewrite the script? With confidence excessive and momentum robust, Nigeria might be hoping focus, self-discipline, and expertise can lastly put an finish to this troubling AFCON pattern.
