Tinubu Commends Super Eagles, Urges Focus on African Nations Cup

President Bola Tinubu has commended the Super Eagles for their efforts in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, despite their heartbreaking loss to DR Congo in a playoff on Sunday.

The Super Eagles’ World Cup dream suffered a major blow at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, as DR Congo advanced to the intercontinental playoff following a dramatic penalty shootout.

The match ended 1–1 after 120 minutes of regulation and extra time, sending the encounter to penalties.

Nigeria initially went ahead through Frank Onyeka in the third minute, but DR Congo equalised in the 32nd minute through M. Elia. Extra time saw both teams create chances, with Tolu Arokodare missing a header for Nigeria and goalkeeper Nwabali making a crucial save from a DR Congo free kick. Despite the opportunities, neither side could break the deadlock.

The penalty shootout proved decisive. Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed early attempts, while Nwabali denied DR Congo’s first penalty. DR Congo eventually triumphed 4–3 on penalties, ending Nigeria’s World Cup hopes for the second consecutive tournament.

The victory sets up DR Congo for a chance to secure one of the final tickets to the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

In a statement released on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu praised the team’s effort despite the defeat.

“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” Tinubu said.

He urged all stakeholders in Nigerian football to critically assess the team’s performance, saying, “We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board.”

Tinubu stressed the need to shift focus to the upcoming African Cup of Nations, which will be held from January to February 2026 in Morocco.

“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” he added, emphasising that lessons from the World Cup qualifiers should inform preparations for the continental tournament.

The President also encouraged fans and Nigerians across the country to continue supporting the national team.

He highlighted the resilience and dedication of the players, noting that despite the disappointment, the team showed determination and commitment in both the first playoff match and the high-pressure shootout against DR Congo.