close
Thursday, January 15, 2026

AFCON 2025: We’re still proud of you, FG tells heartbroken Super Eagles players

“Even in defeat, you showed character, teamwork, and resilience, and those qualities matter deeply to the nation you represent,” said the information minister.

• January 15, 2026
Super Eagles after Morocco
Super Eagles

The federal government says it is still proud of the Super Eagles’ performance despite gallantly losing to Morocco on penalties in the 2025 African Cup of Nations.

This was noted in a statement by the information minister, Mohammed Idris, on Thursday. He thanked the Super Eagles for giving their all and representing the country with pride and dignity.

“Even in defeat, you showed character, teamwork, and resilience, and those qualities matter deeply to the nation you represent. Football has its highs and lows, but your efforts, 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,” Mr Idris said.

The semi-final clash ended 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out in favour of the host nation, Morocco.

The match was played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, which ended 0-0 after 90 minutes of regular time and 30 minutes of extra time.

Morocco will play in the final on Sunday against the Teranga Lions of Senegal in Rabat, while Nigeria will play the Pharaohs of Egypt for third place on Saturday at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.

(NAN)

We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.

More from Peoples Gazette

farmers

Agriculture

FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology

The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Katsina State

Politics

Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku

“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

Micro Small and Medium Enterprises

Economy

Governance structures critical for MSMEs’ survival amid tax reforms, says CEG

Mr Hassan said that many MSMEs still viewed governance as an issue meant for large corporations, describing such thinking as risky in today’s operating environment.

U.S astronauts Zena Cardman and Michael Fincke, Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov

World

Four astronauts depart ISS due to medical issue

NASA has brought back a four-member astronaut crew to Earth due to a medical issue, marking the first such early return in the history of the International Space Station.

Dankombo Morris

Rights

Adamawa: Police begin investigation over alleged acid attack on teenager

The police command in Adamawa says it has commenced an investigation into a case of an alleged acid attack on a teenager, Walid Mohammed, in Yola South LGA.

20-year-old man for allegedly attempting to smuggle Indian hemp in a loaf of bread

States

NCoS foils drug smuggling attempt at Kano high court, arrests suspect

The comptroller urged members of the public, especially parents and guardians, to caution their wards against engaging in criminal activities.

Geoffery Uche Nnaji

Opinion

Strength in Silence: The Nnaji doctrine as legal offensive gains momentum

This action is about truth, records, and closure. Nothing more. Nothing less.

Akor Adams

Sport

AFCON 2025: ‘Make una go interview referee,’ Super Eagles player says as Nigeria lose to Morocco

“Make una go interview referee,” was the retort of one of Nigeria’s Super Eagles players after losing to the hosts, Morocco, on penalties.