President Tinubu To Super Eagles: It’s Time to Rebuild and Pursue AFCON Success

President Tinubu To Super Eagles: It’s Time to Rebuild and Pursue AFCON Success

By Niyi Busari 

President Bola Tinubu has praised the Super Eagles for their performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, despite their elimination in Sunday’s playoff match against the Democratic Republic of Congo, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the World Cup were cut short after the Congolese side edged the Eagles 4–3 on penalties, following a 1–1 draw after extra time in Morocco. The defeat means the Super Eagles will miss the World Cup for the second consecutive tournament.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu acknowledged the disappointment felt by millions of Nigerians but urged the team and football authorities to view the setback as an opportunity for renewal.

“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” the President said, noting that the team had fought hard throughout the qualification series, including securing a crucial win in the first leg of the playoff.

Tinubu called on the Nigeria Football Federation, team officials, and other stakeholders to “plug all the loopholes” and return to the drawing board ahead of the next major challenge—the African Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 2025 to January 2026.

“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” the President added.