By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye
As the Super Eagles of Nigeria prepare to round off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in Morocco with a third-place playoff against Egypt, a rallying call has gone out for the team to put their semi-final heartbreak behind them and finish on a high.
The Technical Advisor on Sports Development to the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Abiodun Oyebanji, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, has saluted the Super Eagles for their fighting spirit despite their painful semi-final exit.
Dr. Osetoba described Nigeria’s loss to hosts Morocco as a “heartbreaking but proud moment,” insisting that the performance of the Super Eagles earned the respect and admiration of Nigerians and Africans alike.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG's Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye, Dr. Osetoba commended the players for their resilience, discipline and unwavering Nigerian spirit throughout the tournament.
“The Super Eagles have shown courage, character and determination. Even in defeat, they made Nigerians proud,” she said. “The spirit they displayed reflects the true identity of our nation — never giving up, no matter the odds.”
Nigeria was edged out 4–2 on penalties by Morocco in a tense semi-final clash in Rabat after regulation time ended goalless. Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou proved decisive in the shootout, saving efforts from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi to swing the contest in the hosts’ favour.
Youssef En-Nesyri calmly converted the winning kick to send the Atlas Lions into their first AFCON final since 2004, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Despite the disappointment, Dr. Osetoba noted that the Super Eagles’ tenacity has reignited passion among sportsmen and women in Ekiti State, inspiring them to give their best in pursuit of excellence.
“The commitment and hunger shown by this team will motivate athletes back home in Ekiti to push harder and believe that success is possible,” she added.
Dr. Osetoba also reserved praise for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging the role of the National Sports Commission (NSC) in laying a strong foundation for the recent progress in Nigerian sports.
“There is a visible transformation in Nigerian sports. Sports has never had it this good, and credit must go to the leadership and structures now in place,” she said.
Looking ahead to the third-place match, Dr. Osetoba urged the Super Eagles to channel their disappointment into determination as they faces long-time rivals Egypt.
“The job is not finished. The players must rise again, dethrone the Pharaohs and bring the medal home for Nigeria,” she concluded.
The Super Eagles will take on Egypt with pride, purpose and the backing of a nation eager to see them end their AFCON journey on a victorious note.
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