By Blessing Chinagorom
Super Eagles have expressed sadness over the report of Nigerians losing their lives to the just concluded match with South Africa which qualified Nigeria for the final of 2023 African Nations Cup.
On Wednesday, Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeated the Bafana Bafana of South Africa 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 score line in full play time and extra time at the Stade de la Paix in Cote d’Ivoire.
It was reported that Nigerian businessman, the CEO of Groupe Auto Promotion, Chief Osondu Nwoye collapsed after a goal was cancelled during the match and Nigerian University Staff, Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi also passed on while watching the game.
The report also revealed that former Nigerian Lawmaker, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh gave up the ghost and Nigerian graduate who was Corps member, also passed on while watching the match between the Nigeria’s super eagles and Bafana bafana of South Africa.
On its official X page, the Super Eagles writes: During the course of our semi-final match, we tragically lost few supporters. In a cruel twist of fate, their fervent passion for the beautiful game unwittingly led them to their final moments.
Adding, “As the Nigeria vs South Africa match unfolded, they were lost in the thrill of the game, unaware of the looming danger. May their souls find eternal peace, forever remembered for their love of football and the togetherness it brings. Rest in peace.”
Meanwhile, Super Eagles’ victory over the South African side on Wednesday has qualified Nigeria for the final match of this year’s CAF’s African Cup of Nations.
After almost missing out from the group, when the Nigeria’s Super Eagles won with 1-0, courtesy of penalty from William Troost- Ekong, the elephants booked a final date against Nigeria, Premium time reports.
Cote d’Ivoire, the AFCON 2024 host, booked their place in the final with a 1-0 win over DR Congo while Sébastien Haller scored the goal that took the Elephants into Sunday’s final against Nigeria.