AFCON: I play like Caicedo, Kante, Amrabat – Super Eagles superstar, Nnadi

**AFCON: I play like Caicedo, Kante, Amrabat – Super Eagles superstar, Nnadi**

In the high-stakes arena of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), confidence is a currency as valuable as goals. For Tochukwu Nnadi, the 22-year-old Zulte Waregem midfielder currently donning the iconic green of Nigeria, that confidence is rooted in a deep admiration for the game’s elite defensive midfielders. In a candid revelation that has sparked conversation among football fans, Nnadi has explicitly stated that his style of play mirrors that of Premier League stars Moisés Caicedo, N’Golo Kanté, and Moroccan international Sofyan Amrabat.

This comparison is not merely aspirational; it is a blueprint for how Nnadi intends to conduct himself on the continental stage. As the Super Eagles navigate the complexities of the tournament, the emergence of Nnadi offers a fascinating tactical dimension to the Nigerian midfield.

The Blueprint: Learning from the Masters

To understand Nnadi’s self-assessment, one must look at the players he has chosen to emulate. Each represents a distinct but equally vital facet of the modern defensive midfield role.

**Moisés Caicedo** represents the archetype of the “controller.” The Ecuadorian, who made a record-breaking move to Arsenal, is known for his immense physical presence, ability to cover ground, and uncanny knack for breaking up play before it begins. He operates as a shield, maintaining structural integrity while remaining composed under pressure. Nnadi’s adoption of Caicedo’s traits suggests a desire to impose himself physically and dictate the tempo from deep.

**N’Golo Kanté**, perhaps the most iconic defensive midfielder of the modern era, is synonymous with relentless energy and ball recovery. While Kanté is slightly smaller in stature, his low center of gravity and incredible stamina allow him to dispossess opponents in tight spaces. Nnadi’s mention of Kanté indicates a willingness to embrace the “engine” role—to be the player who never stops running, covering every blade of grass to support both defense and attack.

**Sofyan Amrabat** brings a different flavor. The Moroccan is a master of tactical fouling and positional discipline. He is often the “destroyer,” tasked with disrupting the opposition’s rhythm through physical challenges and intelligent positioning. Nnadi’s study of Amrabat shows a tactical maturity; he understands that defending isn’t just about ball recovery, but also about managing the game and slowing it down when necessary.

By aligning himself with these three distinct profiles, Nnadi is signaling that he views himself as a hybrid—a player capable of blending the physicality of Caicedo, the energy of Kanté, and the tactical savvy of Amrabat.

The Selection: A Surprise Inclusion

Nnadi’s presence in the 28-man squad for AFCON 2025 was a surprise to many pundits. While talented, he is still in the nascent stages of his senior international career compared to established stars like Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka. However, Head Coach Jose Peseiro (or the relevant manager in charge) clearly values versatility.

In modern football, the ability to fill multiple roles is a prerequisite. Nnadi’s claim that he plays like these top-tier players is a challenge to the coaching staff and a statement of intent to his teammates. He is not here merely to make up the numbers; he is here to compete for a starting berth.

The competition for places in the Super Eagles midfield is fierce. With Ndidi also in the squad, Nnadi faces a steep learning curve. Yet, his humility combined with his ambition makes him a compelling figure. He acknowledges the qualities of established stars while believing he possesses the same toolkit.

The Emotional Journey

Beyond the tactical analysis, Nnadi’s inclusion carries a heavy emotional weight. In his interview, he opened up about the moment he realized he had made the final cut—a moment that transcends football statistics.

“I used to be on a call with my dad, and a friend sent me a message on Instagram to congratulate me. Then I went to Instagram to check the Nigeria Super Eagles page and I saw my name there,” Nnadi recounted.

For a young player, seeing one’s name on that list is a validation of years of sacrifice, early mornings, and missed social events. It represents the culmination of a dream.

“I’m not someone who usually shows a lot of emotion, but at that moment, I really wanted to cry,” he admitted.

This vulnerability is endearing. It reminds the public that behind the high-octane persona of a professional footballer lies a human being processing a life-changing event. It also suggests that Nnadi will be playing with a level of gratitude and passion that could serve as a catalyst for peak performance.

The Super Eagles Context

Nigeria enters AFCON 2025 with high expectations. The Super Eagles are historically one of Africa’s powerhouses, boasting a trophy cabinet that includes three titles. The pressure to perform is immense, and the midfield is often the engine room that drives the team’s success.

In the group stage, Nigeria has been tasked with overcoming opponents who are increasingly organized and technically proficient. The days of relying solely on individual brilliance are fading; collective tactical discipline is paramount.

Nnadi’s inclusion provides the coach with a tactical wildcard. If the team needs to chase a game, his Kanté-like energy could be deployed to harass opponents and win second balls. If the team needs to protect a lead, his Caicedo-inspired composure and Amrabat-style physicality could help lock down the center of the park.

His partnership with existing stars like Wilfred Ndidi will be scrutinized. Can they form a symbiotic relationship? Will one play the holding role while the other ventures forward? Or will they rotate in a double pivot? These are questions that the upcoming matches will answer.

The Zulte Waregem Influence

Nnadi’s development at Zulte Waregem in Belgium cannot be overlooked. The Belgian Pro League is a rigorous environment. It demands tactical discipline and physical robustness—qualities that translate seamlessly to the international game.

Playing in Europe has sharpened his understanding of space and tempo. He has learned to read the game at a level that is essential for the defensive midfield role. It is no coincidence that many of the world’s best defensive midfielders—like Caicedo and Amrabat—have honed their skills in tactically demanding European leagues. Nnadi is following in that pedigree.

Analyzing the “Caicedo, Kanté, Amrabat” Triad

Let’s break down what it actually means for Nnadi to play like this trio:

1. **The Caicedo Influence (Composure):** This suggests Nnadi focuses on ball retention. In high-pressure tournaments like AFCON, teams often panic and give away possession cheaply. A “Caicedo-style” player looks for the safe pass, keeps the shape, and prevents the opposition from capitalizing on turnovers. Nnadi likely prides himself on being press-resistant.

2. **The Kanté Influence (Work Rate):** This is the non-negotiable attribute. Nnadi implies that he is willing to cover the distances required to link defense and attack. In the heat of African football, where the climate and intensity can drain energy reserves, having a “Kanté engine” is a massive asset. It ensures that the midfield doesn’t get overrun.

3. **The Amrabat Influence (Aggression):** This is the “street smarts” of the game. Nnadi recognizes that sometimes you have to be nasty to win. AFCON is known for its physical battles. By citing Amrabat, Nnadi is saying he isn’t afraid to put his foot in, to stop an attack with a tactical foul, or to engage in a physical duel to win possession.

The Road Ahead

As the Super Eagles prepare for their fixtures, the spotlight will inevitably shine on the new blood. Nnadi has positioned himself as a player who watches, learns, and executes.

The comparison to Caicedo, Kanté, and Amrabat is a bold claim. It sets a standard. It tells the world that Tochukwu Nnadi does not see himself as a junior player just happy to be there, but as a peer to the world’s best.

However, claims must be backed up by actions. The AFCON stage is unforgiving. The pace is fast, the tackles are hard, and the scrutiny is intense. If Nnadi can translate his words into a performance—combining the recovery of Kanté, the control of Caicedo, and the grit of Amrabat—he will not only justify his surprise selection but could also become a cornerstone of the Super Eagles for years to come.

His journey is just beginning. From the training grounds of Belgium to the bright lights of AFCON, Tochukwu Nnadi is ready to show the world that he belongs among the elite. He has the mindset, the role models, and the talent. Now, it is time to write his own story, distinct from but inspired by the greats he admires.

For the Super Eagles, this injection of hunger and tactical intelligence could be the spark they need to soar once again. The continent is watching, and the young man from Zulte Waregem is ready to make his mark.