‘Hold your heads high’ – FG salutes Super Eagles after AFCON loss

The Federal Government has commended the Super Eagles for their spirited showing at the 1XBET African Cup of Nations, despite their elimination by Morocco in a dramatic penalty shoot-out.

In a statement released on Thursday in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the team’s performance remained a source of national pride, even though they fell short of reaching the final.

He praised the the Super Eagles for their dedication and for flying the Nigerian flag with honour throughout the competition.

“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,” Idris said.

The semi-final encounter ended in a 4–2 penalty victory for the host nation after a tightly contested goalless draw.

The clash, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, produced no goals after 90 minutes of regulation time and an additional 30 minutes of extra time.

Morocco will face Senegal’s Teranga Lions in Sunday’s final in Rabat, while Nigeria will battle Egypt’s Pharaohs in the third-place match on Saturday at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.