AFCON: Ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper Shorunmu calls for early preparation

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to begin immediate preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following the national team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria missed out on a World Cup spot after a 4–3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the CAF play-offs. The match had ended 1–1 after extra time, marking the country’s absence from consecutive World Cups, having also failed to qualify for the 2022 edition in Qatar.

Speaking to Footy-Africa, Shorunmu called on football authorities to respond decisively to the setback by strengthening the team’s structure and setting clear plans ahead of the next major tournament.

“I hope the NFF will think ahead of time and come up with a solid plan for the team, starting with the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said. “What has happened is gone now, and we have to start thinking of the way forward for Nigerian football.”

Shorunmu emphasised that early and effective preparation is essential, noting that expectations from fans will be high after the World Cup disappointment.

“The AFCON is just around the corner, and it is important that we start preparations early and get everything right,” he added. “I am sure the players understand how Nigerians feel now and will want to make amends at the Nations Cup.”

The former goalkeeper, Nigeria’s first-choice at the 2002 World Cup, acknowledged widespread frustration following the defeat, noting that both players and supporters shared concerns over the team’s performance and the overall quality of preparation leading into the play-offs.

Reflecting on the build-up to the decisive match, Shorunmu said the team’s approach lacked adequate organisation. “In terms of preparation, it was a little bit sloppy,” he said, urging the federation to prioritise long-term planning for future competitions.