Iwobi On Okocha Comparisons, Lessons Learned From World Cup, Fourth AFCON Win

Alex Iwobi has set his sights on matching the potential of his uncle, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha while hoping the lessons learnt from the rather disappointing adventure at the Russia World Cup last year will spur them onto success in their chase for a fourth African Cup of Nations title in Egypt.

Speaking to BBC Sport, the 22-year-old who played his part in helping Nigeria clinch the ticket for the continental tournament is optimistic of their chances when they line up against opponents in June, of which they face Guinea, Madagascar and Burundi in the first stages.

While also admitting the difficult task it is to come out victorious, the Arsenal star is more than happy to be involved in the Africa Cup of Nations.

"I'm excited, I have always dreamt of participating and representing my country at the African Cup of Nations, but it won't be easy for us in Egypt", he said.

Iwobi also buttressed on last year's World Cup adventure where the Super Eagles failed to advance from their group, falling to eventual finalist, Croatia and Argentina, and has backed Gernot Rohr's team to make the most of the lessons from it.

"We were unfortunate not to go past the group stage in Russia, I think the team did well," Iwobi said.

"Unfortunately, I didn't play as much as I would've liked to but I can only look to helping the team when needed.

"We've heard people say stuff like going there to win it and some have pointed out that as a young and inexperience squad it will be a huge pressure.

"I don't see it as pressure, I think if we can continue to play like we did during the qualifiers we'd have a successful tournament.

"Collectively we picked lessons in Russia and we need to make it count now."

On the constant comparisons with his uncle and Nigerian football legend, Okocha who won the AFCON 1994 edition due to the similarities in their style of play, he said,

"I can never get tired of people comparing us. I see my uncle as an idol, someone I have always looked up to as a footballer.

"When people compare me to him... it's like 'wow' maybe they see me on his level but I don't believe I am there yet.

"It is what it is, he's a skillful player, I'm quite skillful myself so they are always going to compare me to him especially that he's my uncle.

"I still have a long way to go, maybe one day I can be on his level or greater."