At 29, Nigerian attacking midfielder Alex Iwobi is finally enjoying his moment of glory at the African Cup of Nations (CAN 2025). With his assists and sense of play between the lines, he led the Super Eagles to the semi-finals, putting star scorers Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams into orbit.
In the knockout stage, no player delivered as many line-breaking passes as the former Arsenal player. Iwobi has established itself as the real driving force behind the Nigeria in this CAN 2025.
I can't say what's changed, I'm just putting the same app. It's nice to receive recognition for my work, he confided Tuesday, on the eve of the semi-final against the host country, the Morocco. "I think above all about the team and the victory. I've always been asked to play different positions, but I give my best no matter what.'
Okocha's legacy and a winding journey
Nephew of the legend Jay-Jay Okocha, Alex Iwobi seemed destined from childhood to wear the Nigeria jersey. Born in Lagos then trained in London, he first played with English youth teams before permanently opting for Nigeria in 2015.
But the pressure was often heavy to bear. He notably suffered strong criticism after Nigeria's defeat in the final of the CAN 2023 facing the Ivory Coast, as well as after the cruel elimination in play-offs of the 2026 World Cup against the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties.
Nigeria regains its pride in Morocco
The journey of Super Eagles morocco has brought a smile back to an entire country. With 14 goals scored, Nigeria displays the best attack of the tournament.
Even the solid Algerian defense did not resist: beaten 2-0 in the quarter-finals, the Fennecs could have conceded a heavier score if Akor Adams had not missed two clear chances in addition to his goal.
"A real family", the key to success
For Iwobi, this success can be explained above all by the atmosphere in the group, despite rumors of tensions linked to bonuses or an altercation on the ground between Lookman and Osimhen.
"The difference is this feeling of fraternity, this family atmosphere that we have created", he explains. "Previous CANs were positive, but the team was young and still learning. Today, everyone is at their peak, everyone shines at the club and this is seen in our joy and our chemistry in the national jersey."
The Nigerian midfielder also pays tribute to the coach Eric Chelle, architect of this cohesion. "It brings out the best in everyone, not just me, but all the players", underlines Iwobi.
Without Ndiki, but with Iwobi as guide
Nigeria will, however, have to cope without its captain Wilfred Ndiki, suspended for accumulation of yellow cards. An absentee that Chelle puts into perspective: "I have several options to replace it. Everything will be fine."
Indisputable holder, Alex Iwobi will be at the heart of the system. His coach praised his playing intelligence: "Some players feel football, they play for fun and for others. Alex is that kind of player."
