Tinubu Praises Super Eagles, Calls for Overhaul After World Cup Playoff Exit
President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Super Eagles for their resilience in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers despite Sunday’s painful playoff defeat to DR Congo, which ended Nigeria’s hopes of appearing at a second consecutive World Cup.
Nigeria were knocked out at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, after a tense encounter that finished 1–1 across 120 minutes before DR Congo clinched a 4–3 victory in the penalty shootout. Frank Onyeka put the Super Eagles ahead early in the third minute, but DR Congo hit back in the 32nd minute through M. Elia. Both sides had chances in extra time, with Tolu Arokodare missing a crucial header and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali pulling off an important save, but neither team could find the winner.
The shootout proved decisive. Early misses from Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon left Nigeria on the back foot. Though Nwabali saved DR Congo’s first attempt, the Congolese held their nerve to progress to the intercontinental playoff.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended the team’s effort, urging Nigerians to stand behind the players despite the setback.
“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” the President said.
Tinubu also called for a thorough review of Nigeria’s football structure, urging administrators and stakeholders to plug all the loopholes exposed during the qualifiers. He emphasised the need for renewed focus as the Super Eagles prepare for the 2026 African Cup of Nations, scheduled to hold in Morocco from January to February next year.
“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” he said, adding that lessons from the failed World Cup campaign must shape the team’s strategy going forward.
The President encouraged fans across the country to maintain their support, noting that the team displayed determination throughout the two-legged playoff and the high-pressure penalty shootout.
