AFCON 2025: Onuachu, Dele-Bashiru upbeat ahead Tunisia test

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu and midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru are upbeat ahead of the match on Saturday against Tunisia in the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Onuachu said Nigeria has the quality and mindset to challenge strongly against Tunisia in Saturday’s AFCON Group C clash.

He said Nigeria respect Tunisia but remain confident in their depth and ambition to push for continental glory in Morocco.

He said: “Nigeria is a great football country. “Tunisia are strong too, but we have the players and squad to take our game to the next level.”

Onuachu said the Eagles arrived with a winning mentality, stressing that success would depend on taking the tournament one match at a time.He added: “We came here believing we can win AFCON.

“There are many strong teams, so we stay focused and approach every game step by step.”Dele-Bashiru said the AFCON itself provides enough motivation for the Eagles to chase victory against the Carthage Eagles.He said: “Just being at AFCON is a huge motivation.

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“Every match matters, and we want to give everything to get the win.”He described the Tunisia match as crucial to Nigeria’s ambition of finishing top of Group C.He said: “It is an important game for us. “If we want to top the group, we must do everything possible to get the job done.”

Dele-Bashiru also highlighted his versatility, pledging full commitment in any role assigned by the technical crew.He said: “I have played in many positions in my career. “Wherever the coach wants me, I will play and try my best to help the team win.”

He stressed the importance of discipline, respect for opponents, and strict adherence to the coach’s instructions.

“We must treat every game the same way, stay focused, respect our opponents and follow the coach’s plan,” Dele-Bashiru added.Nigeria and Tunisia, both winners in their opening matches, meet in their second Group C fixture at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Saturday, kick-off 9pm.

The Super Eagles defeated Tanzania 2-1, while Tunisia beat Uganda 3-1, setting up a keenly contested West Africa-North Africa encounter.

Although Nigeria enjoy a slight historical advantage over Tunisia at the AFCON, their most recent encounter in 2021 ended in a slim victory for the Carthage Eagles.However, both players insist that past results will have little bearing, stressing that focus, discipline, and effective execution on the night will determine the outcome.

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