President Bola Tinubu has hailed the Super Eagles for their efforts in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, despite losing to DR Congo in a playoff on Sunday. Nigeria’s World Cup hopes were dashed at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, as DR Congo advanced to the intercontinental playoff following a dramatic penalty …
Tinubu Praises Super Eagles Despite World Cup Setback, Urges Focus on African Nations Cup
President Bola Tinubu has hailed the Super Eagles for their efforts in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, despite losing to DR Congo in a playoff on Sunday.
Nigeria’s World Cup hopes were dashed at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, as DR Congo advanced to the intercontinental playoff following a dramatic penalty shootout.
DR Congo won 4–3 on penalties, ending Nigeria’s World Cup campaign for the second consecutive tournament.
The victory gives DR Congo a chance to secure one of the final spots in 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 commended the Super Eagles for their resilience and effort despite the defeat.
“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” Tinubu said.
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He also called on Nigerian football administrators and stakeholders to review the team’s performance and address shortcomings. “We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board,” he added.
Tinubu emphasised the importance of shifting focus to the upcoming African Cup of Nations, scheduled for 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 said, noting that lessons from the World Cup qualifiers should guide preparations for the continental tournament.
The President encouraged fans nationwide to continue supporting the national team, highlighting the players’ dedication and commitment throughout the high-pressure match against DR Congo.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
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