AFCON 2025: NFF, Rabiu Urge Super Eagles to Bounce Back for Bronze
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has praised the Super Eagles for their spirited run to the semifinals of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, despite their narrow penalty shootout defeat to the hosts.
The federation described the team’s campaign as one built on commitment, discipline, passion, resilience, and patriotic fervour.
The semifinal clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat ended goalless after 120 minutes, before Morocco triumphed 4-2 in the shootout.
NFF President and WAFU B leader, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, urged the players to put the disappointment behind them and focus on securing bronze against Egypt in Casablanca.
‘It is important to retain focus by not continuing to dwell on what happened in the semi final match. As far as we are concerned, the team coped well in the circumstances, navigating a number of challenges and playing their game.
‘Penalty shootouts remain lotteries in the game and it could have gone either way… The NFF is proud of the output of the team at this championship. They gave their best and still remain the team to have scored the most goals here. We will talk to them to pick up their morale and go for the bronze,’ Gusau said.
Business magnate and philanthropist Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu also commended the team’s courage and unity, pledging to honor his promise of $500,000 to the players and officials despite the loss.
‘You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch. Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you have made every Nigerian proud… As a token of appreciation for your remarkable journey and effort, I am still going ahead to fulfill my pledge of $500,000. Keep your heads high, Super Eagles – the experience, lessons and spirit will fuel even greater success next time,’ Rabiu declared.
The Super Eagles departed Rabat for Casablanca on Thursday afternoon, where they will face Egypt in the bronze-medal match. The team is scheduled to train twice before the game, with Thursday’s session open to the media and Friday’s official training allowing limited access.
