AFCON 2025 Final Drama: Why Senegal's Victory Over Morocco Should Worry Nigerian Football

Photo: Felix Ngo

Omo, what a final! The 2025 AFCON showdown between Senegal and Morocco had everything – drama, controversy, and enough tension to give you high blood pressure. As we watched Senegal lift their second continental trophy, many of us Nigerian fans couldn't help but feel some type of way. While we were celebrating our neighbors' success (because African unity, right?), there was also that bitter taste of 'this should have been us.'

The Final That Had Everyone Talking

The Morocco vs Senegal final wasn't just about football – it was pure theater. From disputed penalty calls to last-minute drama that had fans across Africa jumping out of their seats, this match will be talked about for years. Senegal's victory wasn't just a win; it was a statement that they've truly established themselves as African football royalty.

But here's where it gets interesting for us Nigerians. As we watched Senegal celebrate their second AFCON title in four years, the question on every Super Eagles fan's mind was simple: 'When will it be our turn again?'

What Senegal Did Right (And What We Can Learn)

Let's be real – Senegal didn't just stumble into this success. Their approach to building a winning team offers some serious lessons for Nigerian football:

• Consistency in coaching: While we've been changing coaches like we change clothes, Senegal stuck with their project and built something sustainable
• Youth development: They invested in their academies and gave young players clear pathways to the national team
• Mental strength: This team showed incredible resilience throughout the tournament, never giving up even when things got tough
• Team chemistry: You could see the bond between these players – they genuinely played for each other

The Hard Truth About Nigerian Football

As much as it pains me to say this, Senegal's success highlights some uncomfortable truths about where Nigerian football currently stands. We have all the talent in the world – arguably more raw talent than Senegal – but we keep finding ways to underperform when it matters most.

Our last AFCON triumph was in 2013, and since then, we've watched countries like Algeria, Cameroon, and now Senegal (twice!) lift the trophy while we struggle to even reach finals. It's not about lack of talent; it's about structure, planning, and having a clear vision for Nigerian football.

What This Means for Nigeria's Football Future

Senegal's victory should serve as a wake-up call for everyone involved in Nigerian football – from the NFF to the coaches, players, and even us fans. Here's what needs to happen:

Investment in Infrastructure: We need better training facilities, proper academies, and a youth development system that actually works.

Long-term Planning: Stop the constant coach changes and build a sustainable football philosophy that spans years, not months.

Professional Management: The days of 'managing' our national team like a local club should be over. We need world-class administration.

The Silver Lining

Despite the disappointment of not being in that final, there's hope for Nigerian football. Our U-17 teams continue to impress on the world stage, and we have incredible talents like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Wilfred Ndidi who can compete with anyone.

The question is: can we create an environment where these talents can flourish at the national team level? Senegal has shown us it's possible. Morocco's run to the final also proves that African teams can compete with the best when everything clicks.

As we congratulate Senegal on their well-deserved victory, let's use this moment as motivation. The next AFCON is already calling, and there's no reason why the Super Eagles can't soar again. But first, we need to do the hard work of building a foundation that can support sustained success.

What do you think? Are you optimistic about Nigeria's football future, or do we need more fundamental changes? Drop your thoughts – I'm ready for this conversation!