By Emmanuel Kwada
President Bola Tinubu has hailed the Super Eagles’ emphatic 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon in the CAF World Cup 2026 qualifying play-off semi-final, describing it as a “resounding statement of Nigeria’s football prowess” and a testament to national resilience amid challenges.
In a statement issued Thursday by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu congratulated the team on their “dominant display” at Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, where Victor Osimhen’s brace, Chidera Ejuke’s stunner, and Ademola Lookman’s composure sealed progression to Sunday’s final against either Cameroon or DR Congo.
“From the opening whistle to the final blow, our boys played with heart, skill, and unity—the very qualities that define Nigeria,” the President declared. “This win is not just three points; it is a message to Africa and the world that the Super Eagles are back and hungry for glory.”
Tinubu, who followed the match from the State House, singled out Osimhen—now with eight goals in the campaign—as “a lion leading the pride” and praised coach Éric Chelle for tactical discipline despite pre-match bonus disputes. “You have honored the green-white-green. Now, sustain this momentum. The World Cup stage awaits—go claim it,” he urged.
The victory, Nigeria’s first in a CAF play-off since 2017, secures a shot at the March 2026 inter-confederation play-offs in Mexico, where one African berth remains. Tinubu assured the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) of full federal support, including timely release of funds and logistics for the final.
Sports Minister John Enoh echoed the call, telling reporters in Abuja: “This is redemption after 2022. The President is fully behind the team—no more distractions.” Fans erupted nationwide, with #SuperEaglesSoar trending as Lagos and Abuja streets pulsed with green jerseys into the night.
As the Eagles prepare for Sunday’s showdown, Tinubu’s rallying cry resonates: momentum built in Rabat must carry them to the global stage.
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