By Joke Kujenya
NIGERIA’s AFRICA Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign ended at the semi-final stage on Wednesday after Morocco defeated the Super Eagles on penalties to qualify for the final of the 2025 tournament.
Promptly, the Federal Government (FG) commended the Super Eagles for their performance and resilience despite the defeat.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, conveyed the message in a statement issued on Thursday.
Idris said the team demonstrated character, teamwork and resilience, qualities he described as deeply important to the nation. He said the players’ effort and commitment throughout the competition earned them the respect and gratitude of Nigerians at home and abroad.
“Thank you for giving your all and for representing Nigeria with pride and dignity,” Idris said.
“Even in defeat, you showed character, teamwork, and resilience, and those qualities matter deeply to the nation you represent.”
Idris said the team reminded Nigerians that wearing the national colours represents courage, unity and perseverance.
“You reminded us that wearing the green and white is about courage, unity, and never giving up,” he said.
“Hold your heads high, learn from this experience, stay united, and return stronger.
“Nigeria remains proud of you and grateful for the joy and hope you gave us during this competition.”
Morocco secured qualification after both teams failed to score in more than 120 minutes of play at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, forcing a penalty shootout to decide the tie.
Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved Hamza Igamane’s kick during the shootout, raising hopes of progression, but Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi saw their efforts stopped by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bono.
Youssef En Nesyri converted the decisive penalty to seal Morocco’s victory.
Despite Ademola Lookman recording the first shot on target for Nigeria, the Super Eagles managed only one additional effort on target across the duration of the match.
Nwabali was called into action on several occasions, while Bono faced limited threats in regulation time.
The Nigerian defence of Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi Samuel repeatedly halted attacks from Brahim Diaz, Ayoub El Kaabi and Abde Ezzalzouli.
Also, the absence of captain Wilfred Ndidi due to suspension was felt in midfield, with Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka tasked with multiple responsibilities.
The defeat halted Nigeria’s attempt to secure a fourth AFCON title, with the team again stopped by a host nation.
Cote d’Ivoire defeated the Super Eagles in the final of the previous tournament in Abidjan.
Meanwhile, Abdul Samad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, said he would still donate $500,000 to the Super Eagles despite the semi-final loss.
Rabiu had earlier promised to make the donation if the team defeated Morocco.
Nigeria will face Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday, while Morocco will play Senegal in the final on Sunday.
