Comedian Bovi blasts Super Eagles over AFCON semi-final performance
By Folashade Olorunfemi –
Popular comedian and actor, Bovi, has criticised the Super Eagles’ performance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final.
In a video released earlier on Wednesday via his Instagram handle, the comedian lamented the attitude of the Nigerian Super Eagles players on the pitch, singling out Samuel Chukwueze in particular. Addressing the footballers, he said:
“I think it is very necessary to do this because I have seen the same pattern repeat itself over the years. Religion and politics divide us due to personal interests; football is the only thing that unites Nigerians as a nation. As a Nigerian footballer representing Nigeria, you have the potential to unite the country.
“Wearing the Nigerian jersey is beyond your salary. You need to understand that the weight of a nation lies in your hands. Therefore, you have to treat football like an assassin and avoid distractions, regardless of how the NFF treats you. If you go for glory before victory, you will mess up.
“We let an advantage slip. Don’t come to the Super Eagles if you’re not ready to kill. Social media will kill you with praise. They don’t like you; they like what you do. The tides can change at any time. You guys are our potential heroes. Don’t let the comments or likes fool you.”
He added, “You need to shoot that shot and tear the net like Rashidi Yekini. It is things like this that get us going as a nation.”
The comedian recalled previous victorious moments and setbacks of the Super Eagles, mentioning the likes of Jay-Jay Okocha, Sunday Oliseh, Nwankwo Kanu, Taribo West, and Victor Ikpeba.
“The 1994–1996 set of footballers messed up because it was our first time at the World Cup. They still remain our heroes because their legacy has not been erased by greater achievements. You guys are our potential heroes. During the 2018 World Cup, Argentine citizens stayed off social media for four days before the competition, while Nigerians were busy posting online. This experience brings back scars from previous failures. I forgive you wholeheartedly, Chukwueze,” he said.
Meanwhile, Afrobeats star Davido lost a $50,000 bet after Nigeria’s Super Eagles were defeated by Morocco in the AFCON semi-final on Wednesday. Hours before the match, Davido had shared his bet slip on social media, revealing that he staked $50,000 on Nigeria to defeat the host nation.
In a related development, popular Nigerian live streamer Peller also disclosed that he lost $3,000 after betting on Nigeria to beat Morocco within 90 minutes.
“Thank you, Super Eagles, for playing very well. I have lost my $3,000 bet. You guys were playing well in previous games before I decided to place a bet and watch your match. Maybe if I stop watching your games, you will start playing well again,” he said sarcastically during a live stream on Wednesday.
