The Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has showered high praise on the Super Eagles for their gallant performance and bronze medal success at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the feat as a triumph of courage, resilience, and national pride.
Governor Abiodun applauded the Eagles for delivering what many observers regarded as the most thrilling and commanding display of football at the tournament. He noted that the team remained unbeaten in regulation time throughout the competition, winning all their matches except the semi-final, which was ultimately decided by penalties.
He added that Nigeria’s impressive record—emerging as the highest goal scorers in the group stage and conceding no goals in the knockout rounds prior to the semi-final—underscored the team’s quality, discipline, and the enduring pedigree of Nigerian football.
The Ogun State Governor further commended the Super Eagles for their mental toughness and fighting spirit, highlighting their convincing victory over Egypt in the third-place playoff, despite what he described as questionable officiating in the semi-final against host nation Morocco, the controversial confiscation of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s towel, and the intimidating atmosphere created by the home supporters.
According to Abiodun, the Super Eagles’ display reignited national pride and once again reminded the global football community of Nigeria’s rich and storied football heritage.
“Members of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Nigerians from every corner of our great nation are immensely proud of these brave Eagles,” Abiodun 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 strong, with dignity and honour.”
He added that the Eagles captivated millions of Nigerians and football lovers across Africa, restoring the joy, flair, and fearlessness that once defined 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,” he said.
Governor Abiodun acknowledged that while the trophy narrowly eluded the team, their exit on penalties underscored the fine margins of football.
“Yes, they did not lift the cup, but penalties can swing either way. What truly matters is the heart they showed, the unity they displayed, and the belief they restored in our national team,” he added.
He concluded by expressing strong optimism about the future, stating that the Super Eagles and head coach, Eric Chelle, have ignited fresh hope in the hearts of Nigerians and laid a solid foundation for greater triumphs 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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