‘Not chasing personal goals’ – Sevilla star embraces bigger AFCON 2025 responsibility with Nigeria

There are two Sevilla players – Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke – representing Nigeria at the continental showpiece in Morocco 

Chidera Ejuke says wearing the Super Eagles jersey at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is an honour he does not take lightly, as Nigeria push for a fourth continental title, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Sevilla winger, named in Nigeria’s tournament squad, spoke with pride and conviction about representing the country, describing the experience as both deeply motivating and demanding.

“I am happy to be here and excited to represent Nigeria. Being with the guys, building that connection, and wearing the green and white means a lot to me,” Ejuke said.

Nigeria began their Group C campaign with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania on Tuesday evening. Semi Ajayi opened the scoring before Charles M'Mombwa capitalised on a defensive lapse to level early in the second half. Ademola Lookman struck just two minutes later to restore Nigeria’s lead and secure the points.

Ejuke, however, was among twelve players who remained unused substitutes as Eric Chelle preferred Lookman, Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon and Paul Onuachu in attack. Despite watching from the bench, the winger has insisted the collective objective matters far more than individual minutes.

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Focus, unity and belief inside Nigeria camp

Ejuke revealed that the squad’s attention is firmly fixed on the task ahead, with AFCON the only focus inside camp.

“Right now, everyone is focused on the AFCON. That is why we are all gathered here,” he added.

“There is excitement, hunger, and belief. We are all looking forward to the competition and we just want to give our best and make the country proud.”

The 27-year-old also played down criticism of Nigeria’s performance against Tanzania, particularly suggestions that the Super Eagles struggled for control in the second half. For Ejuke, victory, not aesthetics, is the priority at tournament football.

“I’m not chasing personal goals,” he stated.

“I just want to play and help the team in the best possible way I can whether it’s scoring goals, providing assists, tracking back to defend, or supporting my teammates in any way.

“What matters most is helping the team succeed.”

This tournament is Ejuke’s second Africa Cup of Nations appearance, having made his debut at the 2021 edition, including a cameo off the bench in a 1-0 win over Egypt in January 2022.

Now older and more experienced, Ejuke views AFCON 2025 as an opportunity to contribute more decisively, whether on the pitch or from the sidelines, as Nigeria chase continental glory.

Attention now turns to the Super Eagles’ second Group C fixture against Tunisia, with a win guaranteed to seal a spot in the knockout rounds.