The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face familiar foes Tunisia, alongside Tanzania and Uganda, in Group C of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled for December in Morocco.
The draw ceremony took place on Monday, January 27, in Rabat, Morocco.
The highlight of the group promises to be the clash between Nigeria and Tunisia, reigniting a long-standing rivalry.
Tunisia, champions on home soil in 2004, have consistently troubled Nigeria in previous AFCON tournaments.
The Carthage Eagles knocked out the Super Eagles in the semi-finals of the 2004 edition and most recently eliminated Nigeria in the Round of 16 at AFCON 2021 in Cameroon.
However, Nigeria boasts historical victories over Tunisia, including a 4-2 win in the semi-finals of the 2000 AFCON, en route to the final against Cameroon in Lagos.
While Nigeria and Tunisia are favorites to advance, Tanzania and Uganda are expected to pose significant challenges in the quest for one of the two automatic qualification spots from the group.
Host nation Morocco leads Group A, alongside Mali, Zambia, and Comoros. Group B features an exciting lineup with Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe.
Reigning champions Senegal will contend with DR Congo, Benin, and Botswana in Group D, while Group E features Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan.
In Group F, defending champions Ivory Coast will face Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique in their bid to retain the title won on home soil last year.
The Super Eagles narrowly lost to Ivory Coast in the AFCON 2024 final and will aim to go one step further in Morocco under the guidance of newly appointed coach Eric Chelle.
The Malian tactician, present at the draw, hopes to join the ranks of Otto Gloria, Clemens Westerhof, and Stephen Keshi as managers to lift the AFCON trophy with Nigeria.
Speaking at the draw ceremony, CAF President Patrick Motsepe expressed optimism about the tournament, calling it a milestone in African football.
“The AFCON in Morocco will be the most successful yet. Ivory Coast set a high standard last year, and we must aim higher. Africa boasts exceptional talent, and the world will be watching,” said Motsepe.
The tournament was rescheduled from mid-2025 to avoid clashing with the revamped FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
As the countdown begins, Nigerian fans eagerly anticipate the Super Eagles’ performance in Morocco, hoping the team can secure their fourth AFCON title.