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Sunday, January 18, 2026

‘This bronze feels like gold,’ Tinubu hails Super Eagles’ AFCON grit

Mr Tinubu described the achievement as a “bronze that feels like gold,” praising the team’s resilience and fighting spirit.

• January 17, 2026
Tinubu with Super Eagles
Tinubu with Super Eagles

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles for winning the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Mr Tinubu described the achievement as a “bronze that feels like gold,” praising the team’s resilience and fighting spirit.

“This bronze medal surely feels good like gold. Thank you, our gallant Super Eagles and our national team players,” the president said in a statement on Saturday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

The Super Eagles defeated Egypt, seven-time AFCON champions, via penalties after regulation time ended in a draw.

Mr Tinubu commended the team for overcoming the disappointment of their semi-final loss to host nation Morocco on Wednesday.

He said the players demonstrated determination, persistence, and the can-do spirit for which Nigeria is known.

“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,” Mr Tinubu said.

The bronze medal is Nigeria’s ninth in AFCON history.

Nigeria has now won the AFCON title three times, finished runners-up four times, and claimed third place on record nine occasions.

Mr Tinubu said Nigerians would be proud as the team receives their bronze medals on Sunday in Rabat, Morocco.

“We will all be proud of them as they receive their hard-earned bronze medal on Sunday in Rabat, Morocco,” he said.

(NAN)

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