Sports
AFCON: Defeat or not, you made us proud — FG praises Super Eagles after loss to Morocco
The Federal Government has praised the Super Eagles for their resilience and spirited performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite their semi-final defeat to host nation Morocco.
Nigeria’s campaign came to an end on Wednesday after the Atlas Lions edged the Super Eagles 4-2 on penalties following a goalless draw after extra time, securing a place in the final.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, commended the national team for displaying courage, teamwork and determination throughout the tournament.
According to the minister, the players’ performances reflected values that resonate deeply with Nigerians and underscored the pride associated with wearing the national colours.
“Thank you for giving your all and for representing Nigeria with pride and dignity,” Idris said.
“Even in defeat, you showed character, teamwork, and resilience, and those qualities matter deeply to the nation you represent.”
He noted that while football is often defined by victories and losses, the Super Eagles’ effort and fighting spirit earned them admiration both within Nigeria and among Nigerians in the diaspora.
“Football has its highs and lows, but your effort, commitment, and fighting spirit throughout this tournament have earned the respect and gratitude of Nigerians at home and abroad,” he added.
The minister said the team’s display served as a reminder that representing Nigeria goes beyond winning trophies, symbolising unity, courage and perseverance.
“You reminded us that wearing the green and white is about courage, unity, and never giving up,” Idris said.
“Hold your heads high, learn from this experience, stay united, and return stronger. Nigeria remains proud of you and grateful for the joy and hope you gave us during this competition.”
Meanwhile, BUA Group Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has announced that he will still donate $500,000 to the Super Eagles despite their semi-final loss to Morocco.
Rabiu had earlier pledged the donation if the team defeated Morocco but said the players deserved the support regardless of the outcome, in recognition of their efforts at the tournament.
The Super Eagles will now face Egypt in the AFCON third-place playoff scheduled for Saturday.
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