President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warmly congratulated the Super Eagles for their admirable performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, commending the team for their resilience, determination, and embodiment of the indomitable Nigerian spirit.
Nigeria’s national team rebounded impressively from the heartbreak of their semi-final penalty shootout defeat to host nation Morocco last Wednesday. In the third-place playoff match held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, the Super Eagles faced seven-time African champions Egypt in a fiercely contested encounter at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.
After 90 minutes of intense action ended in a goalless draw, the match was decided by penalties. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali delivered a heroic performance, making decisive saves against Egyptian stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. Nigeria calmly converted four of their spot-kicks, securing a 4–2 victory and clinching a record-extending ninth AFCON bronze medal, while preserving their flawless record in third-place playoff matches.
In his message of congratulations, President Tinubu praised the team’s character and mental strength, noting that despite the disappointment of narrowly missing the final, the players remained steadfast. He remarked that “exhibiting the resilience of the Nigerian spirit, their efforts have now paid off,” adding memorably that “this bronze medal surely feels good like gold.”
The achievement further cements Nigeria’s illustrious AFCON legacy, which now includes three championship titles, four runner-up finishes, and nine bronze medals—a testament to the nation’s enduring presence among Africa’s football elite.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to receive their medals on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Rabat, ahead of the tournament’s grand finale between Morocco and Senegal.
It is a proud moment for Nigeria. Through grit, unity, and unwavering belief, the Super Eagles once again demonstrated heart, class, and the fighting spirit that defines the nation.
