The Super Eagles of Nigeria are among Africa’s most successful football teams, boasting an impressive record in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

From their first triumph in 1980 to their most recent win in 2013, Nigeria has consistently left an indelible mark on African football, Footballrover reports.

This article takes you through a complete timeline of Nigeria’s AFCON victories, exploring the moments, players, and strategies that defined their success.

1980: Nigeria’s First Triumph on Home Soil

Nigeria’s first AFCON victory came in 1980 when they hosted the tournament. Coached by Brazilian tactician Otto Gloria, the team, then known as the Green Eagles, delivered an outstanding performance throughout the competition.

• Key Players: Segun Odegbami, Muda Lawal, and Christian Chukwu led the charge.
• The Final: Nigeria faced Algeria in a packed National Stadium in Lagos and dominated the game with a convincing 3-0 victory. Segun Odegbami scored twice, while Lawal added the third, sealing Nigeria’s first AFCON title.
• Legacy: This victory marked the beginning of Nigeria’s rise as a football powerhouse in Africa.

1994: The Golden Generation Strikes

Fourteen years after their first win, Nigeria claimed their second AFCON title in Tunisia, led by the legendary Clemens Westerhof. This era is often referred to as the Golden Generation of Nigerian football.

• Key Players: Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amunike, Sunday Oliseh, and Austin Okocha were instrumental.
• The Final: Nigeria defeated Zambia 2-1 in the final. Emmanuel Amunike scored both goals for Nigeria, turning the game around after Zambia’s early lead.
• Legacy: This victory propelled Nigeria to greater heights, including their debut World Cup appearance later that year, where they reached the Round of 16.

2013: Redemption Under Stephen Keshi

After 19 years of near misses, the Super Eagles lifted their third AFCON trophy in South Africa, led by the late Stephen Keshi, who became the second person to win the tournament both as a player (1994) and a coach.

• Key Players: Sunday Mba, Victor Moses, and John Obi Mikel were standout performers.
• The Final: Nigeria defeated Burkina Faso 1-0, with Sunday Mba scoring the decisive goal through a brilliant solo effort.
• Legacy: This victory rejuvenated Nigerian football, showcasing the potential of homegrown talent like Mba, who was playing in the Nigerian league at the time.

What Made These Wins Special?

Each of Nigeria’s AFCON victories came with unique narratives:

1. 1980: Marked the dawn of Nigeria’s dominance in African football.
2. 1994: Sealed off Nigeria’s status as a football superpower.
3. 2013: A show of resilience and the belief in local talent.

Why Nigeria’s AFCON Victories Matter

• Inspiration: Each win inspired a new generation of players and fans.
• Global Recognition: Nigeria’s triumphs cemented their reputation as one of Africa’s elite teams.
• Tactical Evolution: From Gloria’s flair to Westerhof’s discipline and Keshi’s ingenuity, each victory highlighted Nigeria’s tactical evolution over decades.

Can the Super Eagles Do It Again?

With the new crop of talented players like Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles of Nigeria came close.to winning the 2023 edition but were edged out 2-1 by the Elephants of Ivory Coast.

Nigeria is poised for another AFCON success in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many times have the Super Eagles won the AFCON?

The Super Eagles have won the African Cup of Nations three times: in 1980, 1994, and 2013.

2. Who was the first coach to lead Nigeria to an AFCON victory?

Brazilian coach Otto Gloria led Nigeria to their first AFCON triumph in 1980.

3. Which players have been instrumental in Nigeria’s AFCON successes?

Segun Odegbami (1980), Rashidi Yekini (1994), and Sunday Mba (2013) are some of the standout players from Nigeria’s AFCON victories.

4. When did Stephen Keshi win the AFCON as a player and coach?

Stephen Keshi won the AFCON as a player in 1994 and as a coach in 2013.

5. What is the significance of the 1994 AFCON victory?

The 1994 victory solidified Nigeria’s status as a football superpower in Africa and marked the start of their Golden Generation.

6. Has Nigeria hosted the AFCON?

Yes, Nigeria hosted the AFCON in 1980, which they won, and co-hosted in 2000, finishing as runners-up.

7. Who scored the winning goal in the 2013 AFCON final?

Sunday Mba scored the only goal in the 2013 final, securing Nigeria’s victory over Burkina Faso.

8. What was the biggest win in Nigeria Super Eagles history?

Nigeria’s biggest win was a 10-1 victory against Benin Republic (then Dahomey) on November 28, 1959.

9. Did Nigeria qualify for AFCON 2024?

Yes, Nigeria qualified for the 2024 African Cup of Nations to be held in Côte d’Ivoire.

10. How many times have the Super Eagles won the AFCON?

The Super Eagles have won the African Cup of Nations three times: in 1980, 1994, and 2013.

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