‘Bronze That Feels Like Gold’: President Tinubu Hails Super Eagles’ Resilience After AFCON Victory
ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to the Super Eagles of Nigeria following their third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The Nigerian national team secured the bronze medal on Saturday after a grueling encounter with Egypt, a victory the President described as a testament to the “can-do spirit” of the nation.
Rising Above Semi-Final Heartbreak
The Super Eagles’ journey to the podium was marked by a quick recovery from a painful semi-final exit. Just last Wednesday, the team lost to the host nation, Morocco, in a penalty shootout—a defeat that momentarily dashed the hopes of millions of Nigerians eyeing a fourth continental title.
However, the team bounced back in the third-place playoff, dominating the “Pharaohs” of Egypt throughout regulation time before finally clinching the win in a clinical penalty shootout.
The Resilience of the Nigerian Spirit
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, President Tinubu praised the players for their mental toughness.
“Despite their good run during the tournament, the Eagles lost the semi-final match to Morocco… and our people’s hopes of winning the championship were dashed,” the President remarked. “However, our players remained undaunted, and exhibiting the resilience of the Nigerian spirit, their efforts have now paid off.”
The President emphasized that while the ultimate prize remained out of reach this time, the manner in which the team secured third place against a seven-time champion like Egypt was a point of national pride.
A Hero’s Welcome in Rabat
The Super Eagles are set to be officially decorated with their medals on Sunday in Rabat. Looking ahead to the ceremony, the President expressed the gratitude of the federation for the team’s “gallant” performance.
“We will all be proud of them as they receive their hard-earned bronze medal,” Tinubu said. “Thank you, our gallant Super Eagles. This bronze medal surely feels good like gold.”
