By Muhyideen Jimoh, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
Amid uncertainty, criticism, and widespread scepticism, the Super Eagles landed in Fes under cold skies and persistent Moroccan rain for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025.
From the start, they arrived carrying a weight heavier than their kits; not as favourites, but as wounded giants, one among 24 contenders all vying for Africa’s coveted crown.
Moreover, this was a team still haunted by the agony of missing the North-America bound World Cup; a team many had written off even before the first ball was kicked in the beautiful Maghreb.
However, from the blast of the first whistle, the Eagles began to peel off doubt like old feathers.
They dimmed Tanzania’s Stars, clipped the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia, and dismantled a disjointed Ugandan Cranes with ruthless efficiency.
In doing so, it was not just victory; it was a declaration, with each match washing away lingering pain and restoring belief.
By the time the tournament tightened into the unforgiving knockout rounds, the Eagles no longer flinched.
Mozambique’s Mambas were swiftly devoured, while Algeria’s old foxes were sent scurrying back to the desert, outpaced by raw hunger and the Naija belief.
Clearly, Nigeria was flying again.
An excited Nigerian coach, Eric Chelle, described the victories as inspiring, adding that preparation and commitment were evident throughout the contest.
“I am extremely proud of the boys. They were happy, focused, and brave. We worked hard, and my vision is clearly taking shape in this team,” Chelle said ahead of the titanic semi-final clash in Rabat.
Then, on the D-day, in the ultimate final-before-the-final as it was dubbed, a hostile red-sea crowd, the roar of Moroccan fans, and questionable officiating all conspired to tilt the vociferous clash.
Albeit this, the Eagles fought with grit, muscle, and belief, but destiny reduced their dream to football’s cruelest lottery: the penalties.
Morocco eventually advanced. Yet, Nigeria staggered but did not fall.
What followed revealed the soul of the nation.
From Abuja came a rallying backup; President Bola Tinubu stood firmly behind the team, urging them to rise again, to empty the tank, and to fight for pride.
In response, the Eagles delivered vintage Nigerian football.
In the bronze medal clash, they caged Egypt’s Pharaohs, seven-time AFCON champions, silencing North Africa’s kings to claim a record ninth AFCON bronze medal; a “golden bronze” forged in resilience rather than regret.
Moments after the final whistle, President Tinubu again spoke not with disappointment, but with pride, noting that the bronze felt like gold.
“Thank you, our gallant Super Eagles. Thank you, our national team players.
This bronze medal surely feels good like gold.
“Despite their good run during the tournament, the Eagles lost the semi-final to Morocco on penalties, and our people’s hopes of winning the championship were dashed.
“However, our players remained undaunted. They showed the resilience of the Nigerian spirit, and their effort has now paid off. This team fought for the badge, for the country, and for our collective pride”.
Clearly, the message resonated far beyond the dressing room.
With soaring wings and confidence renewed, stakeholders insist the task ahead is clear to sustain the flight, build consistency, and push Nigeria back into the elite circle of world football.
Beyond the fierce jungle of competition in Morocco lies a deeper story; one of cohesion, preparation, and strategic support.
Sports stakeholders say the Eagles’ resurgence mirrors a broader reset at home, driven by Tinubu’s deliberate push to reposition Nigerian sports as a global force and a unifying platform for over 240 million citizens.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, said presidential backing made a significant difference for the team.
“Mr President was personally invested in this team not just in words, but in action.
“From logistics to player welfare, everything was handled with intent. The players felt that confidence from the highest level, and when athletes feel valued, it reflects in their performance,” Dikko said.
Dikko added that the bronze medal represents far more than a podium finish.
“It speaks to the resilience, character, and belief of this Super Eagles team. After a difficult loss against Morocco, they responded with discipline, unity, and courage; values that define Nigerian football and the Nigerian spirit”.
He also thanked President Tinubu for his fatherly love and support for Nigerian sports.
Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, also lauded the players and technical crew for their commitment and professionalism throughout the tournament.
“This is a team that gave Nigerians hope, excitement, and pride. Winning the bronze medal against a strong Egyptian side, and doing so with composure under pressure, is a testament to the mental strength of the players and the quality of preparation by the technical crew,” Olopade said.
“The collective effort of the squad reflects a team that believes in itself and in the future of Nigerian football”.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Communication, and former Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, described the AFCON outing as a product of intentional leadership.
“President Bola Tinubu understands the power of sports to inspire hope, unite a diverse people, and project Nigeria positively to the world. His support for the team was massive,” Dare said.
Tinubu’s influence, stakeholders argue, extends beyond football, as seen in the development of the so-called lesser sports.
It will be recalled that, following recent continental triumphs, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, and the Super Falcons were rewarded with cash bonuses, national honours, and houses.
They also received renewed institutional backing; gestures widely seen as restoring dignity to national service.
Analysts say the message is clear; excellence will be recognised, and sacrifice will be rewarded.
As the Super Eagles reflect on their AFCON campaign with quiet pride rather than loud celebration, their combination of talent, teamwork, and renewed belief has reignited a shared Nigerian dream.
Support from the presidency has reinforced this momentum, helping create a vision of football as a unifying force that lifts the nation’s spirit.
Ultimately, in Morocco, the Eagles did more than compete for a trophy; they reclaimed national pride, reinforced their identity, and reminded millions at home and abroad of the power of belief. (NANFeatures)
***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.
