The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, has praised the Super Eagles for their resilience, character and mental strength after Nigeria defeated Egypt 4–2 on penalties to secure third place at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
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Speaking after the dramatic bronze-medal encounter at the Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca on Saturday night, Adeboye described the victory as a powerful statement of Nigerian spirit, coming just days after the heartbreak of a semi-final penalty shootout defeat.
“This team showed who we are as Nigerians,” Adeboye said. “After the disappointment of the semi-final, they stood up, stayed united and finished strong. That is character. That is resilience. That is the Nigerian spirit.”
The third-place match ended goalless after regulation time, with both teams fielding understrength line-ups following semi-final exits. Nigeria remained disciplined throughout, defending resolutely and creating chances through Simon Moses, Samuel Chukwueze and Akor Adams, whose first-half header was ruled offside.
Egypt threatened through Mohamed Salah, but goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and a solid Nigerian backline held firm, forcing the contest into penalties.
In the shootout, Nwabali emerged as the hero, saving Egypt’s first two spot-kicks from Salah and Omar Marmoush.
Nigeria converted four penalties through Akor Adams, Simon Moses, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman to seal a historic ninth AFCON bronze medal — extending their record as the most successful third-place finishers in the tournament’s history.
Adeboye commended the coaching crew led by Eric Chelle for rotating the squad effectively and maintaining focus.
“This match showed the depth of this team. Players stepped in, followed instructions and delivered.
The coaches deserve credit for keeping the squad mentally strong.”
He also urged Nigerians to appreciate the achievement.
“Bronze is not failure. It is proof of consistency, pride and growth. Our players wore the green and white with honour, and the nation should stand proudly with them.”
Nigeria’s victory marked a fitting end to their AFCON campaign, restoring belief and momentum as attention now turns to future continental and global challenges.
