We Focus on Ourselves’: Onyeka Sends Defiant Warning to AFCON Opponents

Super Eagles midfield anchor Frank Onyeka has made it clear that the Nigerian camp is unbothered by the identity of their upcoming quarter-final opponents. Speaking shortly after Nigeria’s emphatic 4-0 dismantling of Mozambique on Monday night, the Brentford star issued a stern warning to whoever the bracket throws their way. With the Super Eagles safely through to the final eight, Onyeka emphasized that the team’s internal chemistry and current momentum are the only factors that matter as they move deeper into the tournament in Morocco.

“I don’t care what opponent,” Onyeka declared during a post-match interview at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. “We are just focusing on ourselves. That is it.” The “midfield tank,” who was instrumental in shielding Nigeria’s backline against the Mambas, suggested that the squad is more concerned with maintaining their own tactical discipline than studying the threats posed by others. His comments reflect a growing sense of self-belief within a Nigerian side that has now scored a tournament-high 12 goals in just four matches.

Nigeria’s route to the semi-finals will go through the winner of the high-stakes Round of 16 clash between Algeria and DR Congo. While many analysts are already anticipating a potential “Clash of Titans” against the 2019 champions, Algeria, Onyeka’s dismissive stance signals a psychological edge. By refusing to dwell on the “Desert Foxes” or the “Leopards,” the Super Eagles appear to be embracing the role of the tournament’s primary aggressors—forcing other teams to adapt to them rather than vice versa.

Questions regarding Onyeka’s fitness were also put to rest following his substitution in the 68th minute of the Mozambique rout. Despite concerns of a minor knock during the physical encounter, the 28-year-old was quick to reassure fans that his exit was purely tactical. “I’m fully fit,” he confirmed, putting to bed any fears that he might miss the quarter-final showdown this weekend. His availability is seen as crucial for Coach Éric Chelle, who relies on Onyeka’s “muscle and intelligence” to anchor the midfield alongside Wilfred Ndidi.

As the Super Eagles prepare to depart for Marrakech on Thursday, the atmosphere in the camp remains one of quiet confidence. The “Onyeka warning” serves as a reminder that this Nigerian team is playing with a level of swagger not seen in years. With the attack firing on all cylinders and the midfield declaring itself ready for war, the message to the rest of Africa is unmistakable: the Super Eagles are only looking in the mirror.