AFCON 2025: Super Eagles’ Bronze Triumph Will Inspire Nigerians — Akpabio

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has congratulated the Super Eagles of Nigeria on their bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, describing the achievement as a major source of inspiration to Nigerians.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio praised the national team for securing third place in the continental competition.

He commended the Super Eagles’ performance against Egypt, noting that the encounter showcased their skill, resilience and determination.

“The match against the Pharaohs of Egypt was a testament to your skills and determination. I commend you for your exceptional performance. Your victory reflects the talent and resilience for which Nigeria is renowned, and we are proud of how you represented the country on the international stage,” Akpabio said.

He urged the players to take pride in the achievement and use it as motivation for greater success in future competitions.

“Your accomplishment is an inspiration to millions of Nigerians. I encourage you to celebrate this moment and channel it into striving for even greater heights. We look forward to your continued success,” he added.

Akpabio further congratulated the team, expressing hope that the bronze medal would remind them of their potential and what can be achieved through hard work and determination.

The Senate President’s message comes amid widespread commendation for the Super Eagles following a demanding AFCON campaign in which Nigeria narrowly missed out on a place in the final.

Nigeria claimed a record-extending ninth AFCON bronze medal after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties in a tense third-place play-off at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca on Saturday. The encounter ended goalless after 90 minutes, with neither side able to break the deadlock before the match was decided from the spot.

The victory maintained Nigeria’s perfect record in AFCON third-place play-offs, with the Super Eagles now having won all eight such matches they have contested.

The Super Eagles went into the encounter seeking consolation after their dramatic semi-final loss to host nation Morocco, where they were beaten 4–2 on penalties following another goalless draw. Egypt, meanwhile, were hoping to recover from a narrow 1–0 semi-final defeat to Senegal, which ended their run of dominance at that stage of the tournament.