AFCON 2023: Former Nigerian International Mikel Obi Explains Why Ahmed Musa Is Important

• Ahmed Musa’s experience is needed at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, according to Mikel Obi
• The Super Eagles are desperate to win the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast next year
• Musa is Nigeria’s most-capped national team player, having made 108 appearances since 2010

Former Nigerian international Mikel Obi has stated that Ahmed Musa’s experience will be crucial for the Super Eagles during the forthcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Having been with the squad since 2010, when he made his national team debut for the senior national team, Musa holds the record of the player with most appearances with 108 caps.

He was part of the Super Eagles squad that won the AFCON tournament in 2013 under the tutelage of Stephen Keshi.

Having featured in two FIFA World Cup tournaments, Musa is the Nigerian with the most goals at the global showpiece with four.

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Critics have suggested that the 31-year-old Super Eagles captain should make way for younger players, but Mikel Obi has stated that the Sivasspor of Turkey star is needed.

The former Super Eagles captain said:

"We need Ahmed Musa's experience to help us win the AFCON in Ivory Coast 2024".

Nigeria drawn in dicey AFCON group

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles are drawn in Group A alongside host Ivory Coast and friendly foes Guinea-Bissau and Equatorial Guinea, Euro Sport reports.

Jose Peseiro’s side will begin their quest for the title against Equatorial Guinea on January 14 and then take on the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire on January 18 in their second group game.

They wrap up the preliminary rounds with a game against Guinea-Bissau four days later. The Super Eagles are among the favourites to win the title.

Musa explains when he will retire

Sports Brief reported that Musa stated emphatically that no one can force him to quit the national team after 13 years that he has been wearing the green and white jersey.

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Speaking with reporters in Abuja, he made it clear that he will only retire if the coach stops playing him. He said:

“I’m the one doing my job, but if my body wants me to stop, I’ll stop. I’m playing with my club and have a good contract, so why does anyone want me to resign from the national team?