The Federal Government has congratulated the Super Eagles following their victory over Egypt’s Pharaohs in the third-place match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
According to a statement issued on Saturday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, praised the national team for securing the bronze medal and for their overall performance at the tournament.
“Your performance throughout the tournament was a source of pride and joy for our nation. You have upheld Nigeria’s rich football tradition with heart, skill, and resilience. From the group stages to the final whistle in Casablanca, you showed courage, unity, and belief in one another.
“You didn’t just play; you inspired millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
“Securing a bronze medal adds to Nigeria’s remarkable record in AFCON history, as the Super Eagles have continued their strong legacy at this level.
“The way you competed, especially against strong teams, showed discipline and an unbroken fighting spirit,” he said.
Idris also commended the coaches, support staff and players for their dedication and sacrifice, stressing that their effort reaffirmed Nigeria’s status as a powerhouse in African football.
“To our coaches, support staff, and every player who wore the green and white jersey, thank you for your dedication and sacrifice. You faced challenges with determination and gave your best on every pitch.
“You reminded us that true strength lies in teamwork, belief, and pride in our nation, Nigeria. Your effort has shown that Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African football.
“Although the ultimate prize may have eluded you this time, know that this bronze medal was earned with dignity and effort. It belongs not only to you but to every Nigerian who cheered, believed, and stood by you throughout this competition,” he said.
He urged the team to celebrate the achievement with pride and allow it to strengthen their resolve ahead of future challenges.
“Celebrate this achievement with pride, and let it strengthen your resolve for future challenges. You have done well, and we are filled with gratitude and admiration for how you represented our nation,” he added.
Online had reported that the Super Eagles defeated Egypt’s Pharaohs 4–2 on penalties to claim the bronze medal in a tense third-place playoff at the Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca.
The encounter ended goalless after regulation time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout, where goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali proved decisive once again, saving spot-kicks from Mohamed Salah and Oumar Marmoush to secure Nigeria’s ninth third-place finish at the AFCON and maintain their perfect record in the third-place playoff fixture.