Nigeria are emerging as clear favourites to lift the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy, and recent performances have only strengthened that belief. Beyond the scorelines, it is the manner of their victories, the tactical discipline, and the visible improvement in team chemistry that suggest this is a side built not just to compete, but to dominate. One result in particular stands out: Nigeria’s win over Algeria without conceding a single shot on target. Against a nation known for technical quality and attacking threat, that level of defensive control sends a powerful message to the rest of the continent.
Defending without allowing a shot on target is not just about having good defenders; it reflects collective organization. It means the midfield shield is working, the pressing is coordinated, and the back line is well protected. Nigeria did not sit back and absorb pressure blindly. Instead, they controlled key spaces, cut off passing lanes, and forced Algeria into harmless areas. That kind of performance suggests a team that understands its tactical responsibilities and executes them with discipline.
A huge part of this transformation must be credited to head coach Eric Chelle. What he has achieved in such a short time is impressive. When he took over, expectations were cautious, and many fans were unsure what direction the team would take. Fast forward to now, and Nigeria look structured, confident, and mentally strong. The improvement has been clear not just in results, but in how the team approaches games — calmer in possession, more compact out of possession, and far more ruthless in transition.
What stands out about Chelle’s work is balance. Nigeria have always been known for attacking flair and physical power, but in previous tournaments, that was sometimes offset by defensive lapses or poor game management. Under Chelle, the Super Eagles look far more balanced. They can press high when needed, drop into a solid defensive block when protecting a lead, and control the tempo instead of being dragged into chaotic, end-to-end battles. That maturity is often what separates tournament winners from entertaining outsiders.
Another key factor is squad depth. Nigeria are no longer overly dependent on just one or two stars. Goals and strong performances are coming from different areas of the pitch, which makes them harder to plan against. When opponents shut down one attacking route, Nigeria find another. This flexibility is vital in AFCON, where matches are often decided by small moments and where physical and tactical battles vary greatly from one opponent to another.
However, while Nigeria look like favourites, the tournament is far from decided. Morocco will be the real test. They are disciplined, tactically intelligent, and experienced on the big stage after strong performances in recent international competitions. Morocco are comfortable keeping possession, but they are also dangerous on the counter, which could challenge Nigeria’s defensive structure in ways Algeria could not. A match between Nigeria and Morocco would likely be a chess match, testing not just individual talent but coaching decisions, substitutions, and in-game adjustments.
That potential showdown will tell us a lot about whether Nigeria are simply in good form or truly the best team in the tournament. If they can contain Morocco’s wide threats, remain compact in midfield, and still create chances at the other end, then the label of “clear favourites” will be fully justified. It will also be another opportunity for Eric Chelle to prove that his tactical approach holds up against the strongest opposition.
For now, though, Nigeria deserve the praise they are receiving. Beating a strong side like Algeria without conceding a shot on target is not something that happens by luck. It is the result of preparation, discipline, and belief. The improvement under Chelle has surprised many, but it has also reignited confidence among fans who have long believed the Super Eagles have the talent to dominate African football.
AFCON is always unpredictable, and surprises are part of what makes the tournament special. But based on current form, tactical stability, and squad strength, Nigeria are not just contenders — they are setting the standard. If they continue at this level and pass the Morocco test, it will be very hard to argue against them as the team to beat.