Tinubu commends Eagles’ effort, says time to refocus on AFCON 2026

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has praised the Super Eagles for their effort in the bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the team’s defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sunday’s play-off clash in Morocco.

Nigeria’s World Cup hopes were extinguished on Sunday night after a dramatic encounter that ended 1–1 after extra time, with DR Congo edging the Super Eagles 4–3 in a tense penalty shootout to progress to the Inter-Confederation play-off.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, President Tinubu acknowledged the disappointment felt by millions of Nigerians but urged the team to remain focused ahead of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to hold between January and February 2026 in Morocco.

“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” Tinubu said. He noted that while the failure to reach the World Cup for the second straight time was painful, the players showed determination, particularly after winning their first play-off match.

The president called on football administrators, players, and stakeholders to “go back to the drawing board” to address shortcomings and prepare adequately for AFCON.

“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” Tinubu added.