President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Super Eagles for giving their all in the quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite their narrow defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sunday’s playoff final.
Tinubu encouraged the national team to quickly move past the disappointment and channel their energy toward a strong outing at the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria’s hopes of securing a spot at the global showpiece were dashed after the match in Rabat finished 1-1 after extra time, before DR Congo claimed a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout. The result means the country will miss a second consecutive World Cup tournament.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the team deserved recognition for the commitment they showed throughout the qualification campaign.
“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” Tinubu said.
The President also called for immediate steps to strengthen the nation’s football structure, urging administrators, players, and key stakeholders to address the shortcomings exposed during the qualifiers.
“We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board.
“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory.”
Tinubu’s remarks come as preparations intensify for the AFCON scheduled for December 2025, where Nigeria will seek redemption and aim to reassert its dominance in African football.
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