Southern Governors hail Super Eagles’ grit after AFCON Bronze triumph

By Adejoke Adeleye

The Southern Governors’ Forum has commended the Super Eagles for what it described as a courageous and inspiring campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), following Nigeria’s bronze-medal finish.

Chairman of the Forum and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, said the team’s performance reflected resilience, unity and national pride, noting that the Eagles played some of the most entertaining and commanding football at the tournament.

Abiodun said Nigeria went unbeaten in regulation time throughout the competition, winning all their matches except the semi-final, which was decided by penalties.

He added that the team’s record of scoring the highest number of goals in the group stage while conceding none in the knockout rounds before the semi-final underlined their quality, discipline and tactical organisation.

The Ogun State governor also praised the team’s mental strength, particularly their victory over Egypt in the third-place playoff, despite what he described as adversity during the semi-final, including contentious officiating decisions and a hostile atmosphere.

According to him, the Super Eagles’ outing reignited national pride and reminded the football world of Nigeria’s rich heritage in the sport.

“Members of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Nigerians across the country are immensely proud of these brave Eagles,” Abiodun said.

“They were not beaten in regulation time by any team. Even in the face of setbacks, they rose above adversity and finished with dignity and honour.”

He noted that the team’s style of play captivated millions of Nigerians and football lovers across Africa, restoring the flair, fearlessness and attacking confidence long associated with Nigerian football.

“They fought for every ball and played with courage and creativity,” he said, adding that “They gave Nigerians something priceless—renewed hope and pride in our national team.”

Abiodun acknowledged that the trophy narrowly slipped away, stressing that penalty shootouts often come down to fine margins beyond a team’s control.

“What truly matters is the character they showed, the unity within the squad and the belief they restored in Nigerian football,” he added.

The governor expressed optimism about the future, saying the Super Eagles and head coach Eric Chelle have laid a solid foundation for greater success.

“Our Eagles have spoken with their feet,” he said, saying that “The future is bright, and Nigeria will rise again on the continental and global stage.”