Super Eagles Warned Against Complacency Ahead of AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: “Things Have Changed”

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“Things have changed” – Super Eagles warned against complacency ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Former Super Eagles defender Tajudeen Disu has cautioned the Nigerian national team against underestimating their opponents as they prepare for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, according to AfriK Foot.

While Nigeria has earned medals in their last two AFCON campaigns, a lingering issue that prevented them from qualifying for the World Cup has resurfaced.

In 2026, Nigeria could not secure victories against Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and South Africa in both legs, a shortfall that ultimately cost them a spot in the World Cup. Disu warns that a similar outcome could occur if the Super Eagles become complacent during the AFCON qualifiers.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle and his assistants

Super Eagles warned ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Eric Chelle’s squad has been drawn into Group L of the qualifiers, where they will face Tanzania, Madagascar, and Guinea‑Bissau. Disu stressed that there are no longer minnows in African football.

“They should prepare very well and be ready for every match,” he said in an interview with Footy Africa.

“There are no easy teams anymore in African football. These countries are no longer afraid when they play Nigeria. It was different before.”

Super Eagles stars Femi Azeez, Chibuike Nwaiwu

“In those days, if you came to Nigeria, you already felt beaten. And when Nigeria travelled away, opponents were under pressure because of our reputation.”

“But things have changed now because other countries know Nigerian football is not what it used to be.”

“The players must go there, do their best and represent the country well. From what I have seen recently, I don’t think we have much of a chance, but I still wish them the very best,” Disu concluded.

Victor Osimhen, Francis Uzoho and Calvin Bassey during the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON

The AFCON qualifiers are set to begin in September, although CAF has not yet released the full fixture list.

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Adefolahan Guerreiro

Sports Writer

Adefolahan is a CAF‑Accredited sports journalist and football writer whose work appears in outlets such as Soccernet Nigeria, Afrik Foot, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.

With a keen eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and a global perspective.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross‑cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.