The Federal Government has commended the Super Eagles following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, describing the achievement as clear evidence of the team’s dedication and “Nigeria’s rich football tradition”.
In a statement released late on Saturday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, applauded the national team for their performance at the continental tournament.
“Congratulations, Super Eagles. On behalf of the Federal Government and all Nigerians, I congratulate you on winning the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.
“Your performance throughout the tournament was a source of pride and joy for our nation. You have upheld Nigeria’s rich football tradition with heart, skill, and resilience.
“From the group stages to the final whistle in Casablanca, you showed courage, unity, and belief in one another. You didn’t just play; you inspired millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.”
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the standout performer in the third-place encounter, delivering decisive saves during the penalty shootout against Egypt. The Chippa United goalkeeper stopped two vital spot kicks, denying Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah and Manchester City attacker Omar Marmoush, as Nigeria secured their ninth AFCON bronze medal.
The contest itself ended without goals after regulation time, setting the stage for penalties. Ademola Lookman converted the final kick after Nwabali’s heroics, sealing the Super Eagles’ victory in Casablanca. Mohammed noted that the result further strengthened Nigeria’s legacy at Africa’s biggest football competition.
“The way you competed, especially against strong teams, showed discipline and an unbroken fighting spirit,” the minister said.
“To our coaches, support staff, and every player who wore the green and white jersey, thank you for your dedication and sacrifice. You faced challenges with determination and gave your best on every pitch.”
Nigeria had suffered a painful semi-final exit earlier in the week after losing to hosts Morocco on penalties, but Mohammed stressed that the team should take pride in their overall showing.
“this bronze medal is earned with dignity and effort,” he said.
“It belongs not only to you but to every Nigerian who cheered, believed, and stood by you throughout this competition.”
With this latest success, Nigeria’s total number of AFCON bronze medals has risen to nine, the highest by any nation in the tournament’s history. The Super Eagles have also maintained an unbeaten record in all third-place matches they have contested at the Africa Cup of Nations.
What you should know
Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 AFCON highlights the Super Eagles’ consistency and resilience on the continental stage.
Despite narrowly missing out on the final, the team’s ability to recover and secure a bronze medal reinforced their reputation as one of Africa’s most successful football nations. Stanley Nwabali’s penalty saves proved decisive, while the Federal Government’s praise reflects the wider national pride attached to the team’s performance.
With a record number of bronze medals and an unbeaten third-place record, Nigeria’s AFCON history continues to grow stronger.
