Ado Salisu
Former NBA star and President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), Olumide Oyedeji, has praised the Super Eagles for their spirited finish at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), declaring them “champions in the eyes of every Nigerian.”
Nigeria ended the tournament on a high, defeating continental giants Egypt led by Liverpool star Mohamed Salah to clinch the ‘Golden Bronze’ in a tense third-place playoff decided by penalties.
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Oyedeji described the Eagles’ performance as fearless, focused, and worthy of celebration.
“You stood tall against one of Africa’s best. This team showed character, belief, and heart,” he said.
Special recognition went to goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose heroics between the sticks proved decisive. Nwabali saved two crucial penalties, silencing Egypt’s stars and swinging momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favor.
“Nwabali is a true champion,” Oyedeji remarked. “Those saves were not luck—they were courage under pressure.”
From the penalty spot, Nigeria’s mental strength shone. While Egypt faltered missing early penalties through Salah and Omar Marmoush the Super Eagles remained ice-cold. Ademola Lookman’s successful final kick sealed the victory, sending players and fans into jubilant celebration.
More than just a third-place finish, the result was a statement of resilience, pride, and belief.
Oyedeji also urged the team to build on this momentum ahead of the next AFCON, stressing the importance of early preparation to ensure Nigeria goes all the way next time.
He further commended the National Sports Commission, highlighting the progressive leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director-General Chief Honourable Bukola Olopade for their continued support of Nigerian sports.
In Oyedeji’s eyes, this Super Eagles team may have won bronze, but in spirit, they soared like champions.