The Federal Government has hailed the performance of the Nigerian football team, Super Eagles despite the defeat at the African Cup of Nation semifinals.
Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris who on behalf of the Nigerian government appreciated the team for giving their all and for representing the country with pride and dignity.
Report has it that Super Eagles of Nigeria on Wednesday fell in the semi-final game against the Atlas Lions of Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), losing 4-2 on penalties.
Despite the host having the crowd behind them, it was the Super Eagles who struck first via Ademola Lookman, but Yassine Bounou was equal to the task and pushed the ball wide.
The first half was cagey for both sides and Ismael Saibari stung Stanley Nwabali’s palm before the close of the first half at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in RabatRabatV.
Morocco threatened in the second half, but Nwabali held the line for Nigeria as the game went into extra time and subsequently penalty shootouts.
While Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi missed their penalties for Nigeria, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi, and Youssef En-Nesyri converted theirs for Morocco to book a place in the final against Senegal.
The Nigerian Minister told the team that even in defeat, they have showed the character, teamwork, and resilience, adding that those qualities matter deeply to the nation they represent.
He said, “Football has its highs and lows, but your effort, commitment, and fighting spirit throughout this tournament have earned the respect and gratitude of Nigerians at home and abroad. 
“You reminded us that wearing the green and white is about courage, unity, and never giving up. 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. Well done, Super Eagles. The nation stands with you, always”, the Minister concluded.
Meanwhile, as Morocco booked a place in the final against Senegal, Nigeria, on the other hand will play Egypt in the third place on Saturday.
