FThe Federal Government has commended the Super Eagles for their resilience and performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite their semi-final exit following a penalty shootout defeat to Morocco. Nigeria were knocked out of the tournament on Wednesday after a tense encounter that ended goalless before being decided from the spot.
The message of appreciation was delivered by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement released on Thursday. He acknowledged the determination and fighting spirit shown by the national team throughout the competition.
According to the minister, the Super Eagles displayed qualities that go beyond match results. He described their performance at the tournament as a reflection of character, teamwork, and resilience, which he said are values that resonate deeply with Nigerians.
Idris thanked the players for representing the country with pride and dignity. He stressed that their effort and commitment were evident, even in the face of disappointment at the semi-final stage.
He noted that football naturally comes with moments of victory and defeat. Despite the loss to Morocco, he said the team’s attitude and discipline throughout the tournament earned them respect and admiration.
The minister added that the Super Eagles’ performance united Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora. He explained that the team’s journey at the competition brought joy, hope, and a sense of national pride to many supporters.
Idris further stated that the players reminded Nigerians of the meaning behind wearing the national colours. He said the green and white jersey symbolises courage, unity, and perseverance, values he believes the team upheld.
Encouraging the players, the minister urged them to hold their heads high and learn from the experience. He expressed confidence that the team would return stronger and more determined in future competitions.
The Federal Government’s message comes after Nigeria’s narrow defeat to Morocco in the AFCON semi-final. The Super Eagles matched the hosts in a tightly contested match that remained scoreless through regulation time and extra time.
Nigeria showed tactical discipline and physical strength during the game, limiting Morocco’s attacking opportunities. However, the match was eventually decided by penalties, where Nigeria fell short.
Despite the loss, many observers praised the Super Eagles for pushing the hosts to the limit on their home soil. The performance reinforced Nigeria’s reputation as one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations.
In a related development, Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has reaffirmed his support for the Super Eagles. He confirmed that he will still donate $500,000 to the team despite their semi-final defeat.
Rabiu had earlier promised the donation if Nigeria defeated Morocco and reached the final. However, he chose to honour the pledge as a gesture of encouragement and appreciation for the team’s efforts.
The decision was widely seen as a sign of continued belief in the players and their hard work throughout the tournament. It also highlighted private sector support for Nigerian sports development.
The Super Eagles are now set to face Egypt in the AFCON third-place match scheduled for Saturday. The game presents an opportunity for Nigeria to finish the tournament on a positive note.
As preparations continue, the team will look to regroup mentally and physically after the demanding semi-final. The match against Egypt offers a chance to secure a podium finish and end the campaign with a victory.
With backing from the Federal Government, corporate leaders, and fans across the country, the Super Eagles will aim to draw strength from the support shown after their semi-final exit. The encouragement reflects a broader recognition of their resilience and commitment at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
