1xBet-AFCON 2025: Onuachu, Dele-Bashiru upbeat ahead of Tunisia challenge

By Victor Okoye

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu and midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru have assured that Nigeria has the quality to challenge Tunisia strongly at the ongoing 1xBet Official Sponsor AFCON 2025.

Although Nigeria enjoys a slight historical advantage over Tunisia at the AFCON, their most recent encounter in 2021 ended in a slim victory for the Carthage Eagles.

But both players insist that past results will have little bearing, stressing that focus, discipline, and effective execution on the night will determine the outcome.

According to Onuachu, Nigeria remains confident in their depth and ambition in the match against Tunisia to push for continental glory in Morocco.

“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.

He said the Eagles arrived with a winning mentality, stressing that success would depend on taking the tournament one match at a time.

“We came here believing we can win AFCON. There are many strong teams, so we stay focused and approach every game step by step,” he added.

On his part, Dele-Bashiru said the AFCON itself provides enough motivation for the Eagles to chase victory against the Carthage Eagles.

“Just being at AFCON is a huge motivation. Every match matters, and we want to give everything to get the win,” Dele-Bashiru said.

He described the Tunisia match as crucial to Nigeria’s ambition of finishing top of Group C.

“It is an important game for us. If we want to top the group, we must do everything possible to get the job done,” he said.

Dele-Bashiru also highlighted his versatility, pledging full commitment in any role assigned by the technical crew.

“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 said.

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 9 p.m.

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