‘Your dedication and fighting spirit brought us joy and give us hopes in the darkest of times’

Former Green Eagles defender Paul Okoku has taken to his Facebook page to analyze Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign and wants the Super Eagles to hold their heads high and learn from the 2-1 defeat to the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in the final game of the tournament.

‘To the Super Eagles’ players and the coaching staff, we know that the loss to Ivory Coast in the AFCON tournament must feel incredibly disappointing, and we understand if you’re feeling disheartened by your performances. But please know that it’s okay to stumble along the way – what matters most is how you pick yourselves up and keep moving forward. And that’s a fact of life,’ wrote Okoku who was a member of the Green Eagles to the 1984 AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.

Okoku says the Super Eagles should take the defeat as ‘a learning opportunity, a chance to grow and improve. Reflect on what went wrong, but also celebrate the moments of brilliance and resilience that you displayed throughout the AFCON tournament. Your dedication and fighting spirit brought us joy, lifted our spirits, and gave us hope even in the darkest times.

‘In the midst of pain, affliction, and agony in the country, you provided a beacon of light, inspiration and hope to the despair. For that, we are eternally grateful. Your hard work and commitment did not go unnoticed, and we want you to hold your heads high with pride.

‘Remember, in every game, there will be winners and losers, but it’s how you handle defeat that truly defines your character. We are proud of you, not just for your performances on the field, but for the way you carry yourselves with dignity and grace,’ Okoku wrote.