The Federal Authorities has praised the Tremendous Eagles over Nigeria’s third-place end on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying the feat is a testomony to the crew’s exhausting work and “Nigeria’s wealthy soccer custom”.
“Congratulations, Tremendous Eagles. On behalf of the Federal Authorities and all Nigerians, I congratulate you on profitable the bronze medal on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations,” the Minister of Info and Nationwide Orientation, Idris Mohammed, stated in a late Saturday assertion.
“Your efficiency all through the event was a supply of delight and pleasure for our nation. You could have upheld Nigeria’s wealthy soccer custom with coronary heart, ability, and resilience.
“From the group phases to the ultimate whistle in Casablanca, you confirmed braveness, unity, and perception in each other. You didn’t simply play; you impressed thousands and thousands of Nigerians at residence and within the diaspora.”
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‘An Unbroken Preventing Spirit’
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was the hero of the day, saving two essential spot kicks within the penalty shootout in opposition to the Pharaoahs of Egypt.
The Chippa United shot-stopper denied Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush of Manchester Metropolis to assist Nigeria land their ninth AFCON bronze medal.
Saturday’s sport ended barren after 90 minutes earlier than Ademola Lookman transformed the ultimate spot-kick, benefiting from Nwabali’s saves, handy Nigeria the victory in Casablanca.
Mohammed stated with the win, the Tremendous Eagles have added to Nigeria’s wealthy historical past at Africa’s premier soccer competitors.
“The best way you competed, particularly in opposition to robust groups, confirmed self-discipline and an unbroken preventing spirit,” he stated.
“To our coaches, help employees, and each participant who wore the inexperienced and white jersey, thanks in your dedication and sacrifice. You confronted challenges with willpower and gave your finest on each pitch.”
Nigeria misplaced to Morocco in a heartbreaking semi-final penalty shoot-out on Wednesday, however the minister advised the crew that “this bronze medal is earned with dignity and energy”.
“It belongs not solely to you however to each Nigerian who cheered, believed, and stood by you all through this competitors,” he stated.
With the win, Nigeria’s bronze medal depend on the AFCON now stands at 9, the best tally by any nation. They’re additionally undefeated in all third-place video games within the event.
