AFCON Bronze: NSC Says Super Eagles Rekindled Nigerian Football Identity

AFCON Bronze: NSC Says Super Eagles Rekindled Nigerian Football Identity

By Niyi Busari 

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has commended the Super Eagles for securing third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the team’s performance as a powerful display of resilience, discipline and footballing excellence, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Nigeria claimed the bronze medal after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties in the third-place match, following a goalless draw at the end of regulation time. The victory capped a determined campaign and underlined the Super Eagles’ ability to respond positively under pressure.

In a statement, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, praised the team’s character and mental strength, noting that the achievement went beyond the medal itself.

“This bronze medal represents far more than a podium finish. It reflects the resilience, belief and character of this Super Eagles team,” Dikko said. “After the disappointment of the semi-final loss to Morocco, the players responded with unity, discipline and courage — qualities that define both Nigerian football and the Nigerian spirit.”

Dikko added that the team’s style of play rekindled national confidence and pride, highlighting noticeable tactical growth throughout the tournament.

“Beyond the result, Nigerians are proud of the identity and attractive brand of football displayed by the team. It showed maturity, tactical awareness and a renewed commitment to excellence,” he said.

The NSC also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support of Nigerian sports, citing sustained policy backing, investment and leadership support for the Commission.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, equally lauded the players and technical crew for their professionalism and composure, particularly in the high-pressure encounter against Egypt.

“This team gave Nigerians hope, excitement and pride,” Olopade said. “Winning the bronze medal against a strong Egyptian side, and doing so through penalties, is a testament to the players’ mental strength and the quality of preparation by the technical crew.”

He described the squad’s performance as a reflection of belief in the future of Nigerian football and the benefits of collective effort.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero of the match, saving two penalties — including Egypt’s opening kick taken by Mohamed Salah — to earn the Man-of-the-Match award. Ademola Lookman converted Nigeria’s decisive penalty to seal the victory.

Nigeria remains one of Africa’s most successful football nations, having won the AFCON title three times, finished as runners-up on five occasions, and now claimed third place nine times.

The National Sports Commission concluded by thanking Nigerians at home and in the diaspora for their unwavering support and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to sustained investment in football development.