Exclusive: Sylvanus Okpala: 'Nigeria Must Aim to Win the Nations Cup, Nothing Less'

Sylvanus Okpala knows a thing or two about winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). As a key player in Nigeria's victorious 1980 AFCON squad and later as assistant coach to Stephen Keshi in 2013, when the Super Eagles triumphed in South Africa, Okpala is a living testament to Nigeria's footballing heritage.

Known for his passion and unflinching standards, Okpala sat down with SportsBoom.com to share his thoughts on Nigeria's chances at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and what the country’s ultimate goal should be.

Winning Is the Only Goal

Okpala didn't hesitate when asked about what Nigeria’s mission should be going into the Nations Cup. His response was as sharp as his tackles in his playing days:

“When Nigeria is going to the Nations Cup, we are going to the Nations Cup to win. Nothing short of that,” he declared emphatically. He warned against the temptation of lowering expectations or settling for mediocrity.

“Any Nigeria squad's goal should be to win it. We should not be deceived or coerced into settling for less,” he added, his voice brimming with conviction.

Does Nigeria Have the Right Players?

When the conversation shifted to the current crop of Super Eagles players, Okpala’s confidence shone through. “Whether we have the players? Yes, we have the players. Whether we have talented players? Yes, we have talented players,” he said without hesitation.

Okpala also pointed out that the current squad boasts an impressive array of talent performing at the highest levels in Europe.

“This team has established stars at their club levels, with the majority plying their trade in Europe. Hence, the expectations and standards are not expected to drop,” he noted.

A Squad with Greater Club Pedigree

Comparing the present squad to previous AFCON teams, Okpala acknowledged a significant improvement in the players’ professional pedigree.

“We have players playing in their various clubs. Good clubs, not just any club, unlike some of the players in the previous editions,” he said.

This, according to the former assistant coach, raises the bar of what Nigerians should expect from their team.

The Mark of Success

For a man who has tasted AFCON glory both as a player and a coach, Okpala’s definition of success at the tournament is unambiguous. “If you don't win, you come second. If you come third, okay, let's manage it. Apart from this, it becomes a failure, total failure in Africa,” he stated bluntly.

His perspective is a reminder of Nigeria’s rich footballing history and the high standards that come with donning the green and white jersey.

Final Thoughts  

As Nigeria prepares for the AFCON, Okpala’s words serve as both a challenge and a rallying cry. With a talented squad and a proud footballing tradition, the Super Eagles have all the tools needed to make a serious title run.

But as Okpala insists, anything less than a podium finish would be unacceptable.

Super Eagles, the ball is in your court.