The Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commended the Super Eagles of Nigeria for their gallant performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing their bronze medal finish as a triumph of courage, resilience, and national pride.
Governor Abiodun praised the Eagles for what he described as one of the most exhilarating displays of football at the tournament, noting that the team remained unbeaten in regulation time throughout the competition, with their only setback coming in the semi-final, which was decided on penalties.
According to him, Nigeria’s impressive record, scoring the highest number of goals in the group stage and conceding none in open play during the knockout rounds before the semi-final, underscored the team’s quality, discipline, and tactical maturity.
The Ogun State Governor also lauded the Eagles’ mental strength, particularly their emphatic victory over Egypt in the third-place match, despite what he termed questionable officiating in the semi-final clash against Morocco, including the controversial seizure of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s towel and the hostile atmosphere generated by the home crowd.
Abiodun said the team’s performance rekindled national pride and reaffirmed Nigeria’s rich footballing heritage.
“Members of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Nigerians across the country are immensely proud of these brave Eagles,” he said.
“They were not defeated in regulation time by any team. But for officiating decisions that dampened morale, they would have stood tall in the final. Yet, they rose above adversity and finished with dignity and honour.”
He added that the Super Eagles captivated millions of Nigerians and football lovers across Africa, restoring the flair, fearlessness, and creativity long associated with Nigerian football.
“They dazzled us. They fought for every ball. They reminded the world of the Super Eagles of old—free-flowing, fearless, creative, and ruthlessly clinical. They gave Nigerians something priceless: hope and pride,” Abiodun stated.
While acknowledging that the trophy narrowly eluded the team, the governor noted that penalty shootouts often reflect the fine margins of football..
“They did not lift the cup, but penalties can go either way. What truly matters is the heart they showed, the unity they displayed, and the belief they restored in our national team,” he said.
Governor Abiodun concluded by expressing optimism about the future of Nigerian football, stating that the Super Eagles and head coach, Eric Chelle, have laid a solid foundation for greater successes ahead.
“Our Eagles have spoken with their feet. The future is bright, and Nigeria will rise again on the continental and global stage,” he said.
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