AFCON 2025: ‘Nothing Must Block Our Focus’ – Mikel Obi Speaks On Nigeria, Algeria Test

Former Nigeria men’s national team captain, John Obi Mikel, has warned the Super Eagles to avoid all forms of distractions as they continue their campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Mikel said the national team was on the right path and must remain focused if it hopes to go all the way and lift the trophy.

Naija News reports that the former Chelsea midfielder spoke amid reports of unrest in the Super Eagles camp over unpaid match bonuses.

Reports had emerged that Super Eagles players and members of the coaching crew were reluctant to travel to Marrakech for their quarter-final encounter with Algeria due to the non-payment of bonuses for matches already played.

Nigeria is billed to face Algeria in a quarter-final showdown on Saturday night.

It was gathered that both players and coaches are yet to receive bonuses for the four matches played so far at the tournament.

Reacting to the situation, Mikel urged all parties to ensure that off-field issues do not derail the team’s quest for continental glory.

Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, the former captain stressed the importance of concentration ahead of what he described as a difficult encounter.

“We need to win the next game, and we have to play it the right way because it’s going to be a difficult match against Algeria,” Mikel said.

Mikel, who won AFCON with Nigeria in 2013, warned that Algeria would pose a stern test for the Super Eagles.

“I’ve seen them play a couple of times. They are a very strong team and collaborate smoothly with each other.

“They are very strong, they have some really good and talented players, so we have to give our best performance,” he added.

While urging the players to remain professional, Mikel also called on authorities to address the issue of unpaid bonuses before the match.

“There should be no things that block the way, or make it hard to focus, or have a bad effect. We should be prepared to handle any problems or issues that may arise.

“Are the players being paid their bonuses? Whatever they were promised should be fixed before the game begins. I believe we can make it all the way and win the trophy,” he said.

Naija News reports that a win for Nigeria against Algeria on Saturday will see the Super Eagles reach the semi-finals of the AFCON for the second consecutive time.