Tinubu praises Super Eagles despite world cup qualifier heartbreak

President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Super Eagles for their commitment during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series, despite Sunday’s painful playoff defeat to DR Congo, Sport360NG reports.

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the global showpiece were dashed at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, where the Congolese booked their place in the intercontinental playoff after edging a tense penalty shootout.

The contest finished 1–1 after extra time. Frank Onyeka fired Nigeria in front just three minutes into the game, before Meschack Elia levelled for DR Congo half an hour later. Both teams pushed for a winner in the additional 30 minutes, with Tolu Arokodare heading wide and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali producing a key save, but neither side found the breakthrough.

The shootout proved decisive. Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon failed to convert their spot-kicks, while Nwabali stopped DR Congo’s first effort. The Central Africans eventually prevailed 4–3, ending Nigeria’s bid to reach a second straight World Cup.

Their victory keeps DR Congo in contention for one of the final places at the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended the team for their fight and urged continued national support.

“Despite the defeat, the players deserve our appreciation for the effort they put in. We must stand by them,” he said.

The President called for a thorough review of Nigeria’s performances during the qualifiers, stressing the need for football authorities and all stakeholders to address the shortcomings exposed in the campaign.

He also shifted attention to the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, urging the team to regroup and pursue success at the continental level.

“We must now turn our focus to the Cup of Nations. The Super Eagles must work to restore our pride,” he added, noting that lessons from the World Cup setback must guide preparations.

Tinubu further encouraged fans across the country to keep faith with the national team, praising the players’ resilience in both legs of the playoff and their composure under pressure in the shootout.