President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Super Eagles for their thrilling semi-final victory against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the African Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
In an Instagram update, Tinubu said he was proud of the team’s achievement, urging them to soar in the AFCON Finals.
“From the southernmost cape of Africa to the plains of Mauritania and the coast of West Africa, you have made us all Proud to be Nigerians! Go…Soar in the AFCON Finals. Well done, boys!” President Tinubu said in the post he shared via his official Instagram handle on Wednesday night.
News About Nigeria reported that the Super Eagles secured their place in the final after a 4-2 penalty shootout win.
Nigeria, with a record 15 appearances in AFCON semi-finals, demonstrated resilience in the match against South Africa.
Coach Jose Peseiro made a single change in the squad, bringing in Osayi-Samuel for Zaidu.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, present at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, praised the team’s exceptional talent and determination.
Shettima pointed out the nation’s unity in support of the Super Eagles as they aim to replicate their 2013 victory in the upcoming finals on Sunday.
“The entire country awaits their return with bated breath, confident that they will deliver their best performance yet and bring the AFCON trophy home,” he stated.
Before the match, Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, said that he was eager to face the South African team.
According to him, he is familiar with the style of South African players as he plays with them in the South African Premier League.
Speaking with newsmen, Nwabali said that he desired to ‘test his defence’ against them.
Nwabali acknowledged the strength of both Cape Verde and South Africa, describing them as formidable teams.
However, he specifically said that he preferred to play against South Africa because he was curious to see how his defensive skills would measure up against the opponent.
“I really wish to see how my defence will fare against them. Yes, most of their players know me, and I also know them,” Nwabali said.
