Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has set his sights on winning a fourth Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title for Nigeria when the tournament kicks off in Morocco in 2025.

Nigeria came agonisingly close to lifting the trophy earlier this year, falling 2-1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final of AFCON 2024. However, Troost-Ekong — who was one of Nigeria’s standout performers and the tournament’s Most Valuable Player — believes that heartbreak has only strengthened the team’s resolve.

“That’s the only goal,” Troost-Ekong told CAFonline. “We learned so much from the last AFCON final. Côte d’Ivoire were the better team on the day, but we gained experience — some of our players were in their first major final for their nation.”

The PAOK defender added that the team is now more mature and ready to use the lessons from their previous campaign to go all the way this time.

“Now the target is to get there again, use that experience, reach the latter stages, and know what to do to go all the way, hopefully.”

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Uganda, Tunisia, and Tanzania — a tricky group that will test their early resolve.

Opinion: Experience Meets Determination — Nigeria’s Golden Chance Awaits

Troost-Ekong’s words carry the tone of a leader who has seen both triumph and heartbreak in Nigerian colours. The 2024 final loss to Côte d’Ivoire was painful, but it also marked a turning point for this new generation of Super Eagles.

The team is no longer just a collection of talented stars; it’s a side that has tasted the pressure, the noise, and the intensity of an AFCON final. That experience, as Troost-Ekong rightly pointed out, could make all the difference in Morocco.

With players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze reaching their peak years, Nigeria’s squad looks technically sharper and mentally stronger than ever. The hunger to redeem themselves could be the spark they need to reclaim continental glory.

But beyond skill, mentality will decide AFCON 2025. The Super Eagles have what it takes — if they can stay disciplined, convert chances, and play as a united front, Morocco might just witness the return of Nigeria’s football royalty.