Encomium as Nigerian team wins bronze medal at 2025 AFCON

The President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government have hailed the Nigerian team, Super Eagles for winning the bronze medal at the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated Egypt 4-2 on penalties to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 third-place playoff on Saturday.

Cable reports that Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali proved the hero of the night with two crucial saves during the shootout, including one from Egyptian star Mohamed Salah.

While Ademola Lookman then calmly converted the decisive penalty to secure the bronze medal making Nigeria the 9th third-place finish in AFCON history.

The President who in a statement released by his aide congratulated the team for the bronze medal victory, hailed the Super Eagles for putting behind them the disappointment of the semi-final loss to host nation Morocco last Wednesday.

Tinubu stated that the Super Eagles players, through their victory, have once again demonstrated the determination, persistence, and can-do spirit associated with our country.
According to him, “Despite their good run during the tournament, the Eagles lost the semi-final match to Morocco during the penalty shootout last Wednesday, and our people’s hopes of winning the championship were dashed.

“However, our players remained undaunted, and exhibiting the resilience of the Nigerian spirit, their efforts have now paid off.

“We will all be proud of them as they receive their hard-earned bronze medal on Sunday in Rabat, Morocco. “Thank you, our gallant Super Eagles. Thank you, our national team players. This bronze medal surely feels good like gold”, the President applauded the team.
On behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris also congratulated the team over the bronze medal victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Minister in a statement signed by him hailed Super Eagles’ performance throughout the tournament which he said was a source of pride and joy for the nation.

He told the team: “You have upheld Nigeria’s rich football tradition with heart, skill, and resilience. From the group stages to the final whistle in Casablanca, you showed courage, unity, and belief in one another.
You didn’t just play; you inspired millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora”, the Minister remarks.

Idris said securing a bronze medal adds to Nigeria’s remarkable record in African Cup of Nations history, where the Super Eagles have now continued their strong legacy at this level.

According to him, “The way you competed, especially against strong teams, showed discipline and an unbroken fighting spirit.

The Minister appreciated the coaches, support staff, and every player who wore the green and white jersey, saying thank you for their dedication and sacrifice.
“You faced challenges with determination and gave your best on every pitch. You reminded us that true strength lies in teamwork, belief, and pride in our nation Nigeria. Your effort has shown that Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African football.

“Although the ultimate prize may have eluded you this time, know that this bronze medal is earned with dignity and effort. It belongs not only to you but to every Nigerian who cheered, believed, and stood by you throughout this competition”.

Idris who celebrated this achievement with pride, told the team to let the victory strengthen their resolve for future challenges.

“You have done well, and we are filled with gratitude and admiration for how you represented our nation. Super Eagles congratulations. Nigeria applauds you”, the Minister concluded.