As we approach matchday of the AFCON qualifiers, Nigeria has already secured its spot in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, leading the way with 12 points from five games, which is two points more than Guinea Bissau in second place.

Despite Nigeria’s not-so-impressive performances at the tournament since winning it in 2013, Super Eagles legend Finidi George is looking ahead to what comes after the AFCON qualifiers, expressing his belief that the team can emerge victorious in next year’s tournament in Ivory Coast.

While addressing reporters in Uyo, the 1994 AFCON winner, however, warned that the Super Eagles must start extremely well if they desire to go all the way at the tournament.

“Every country wants to win the AFCON before the AFCON, but when you get there, it all depends on how you start the tournament,” said Finidi.

“If you start well, the confidence builds up; that will take you even further, so our aim is to win it, but you never know what can happen.

“We’ll go there with the mindset to win it. The first mission for the AFCON is to win it.”