World Cup playoffs: Tinubu lauds Super Eagles, urges focus on AFCON

President Bola Tinubu has commended the Super Eagles for putting up their best efforts towards qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite their loss in the African playoffs on Sunday.

Tinubu urged the Super Eagles to put behind them the loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo and prepare for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will be held from December 2025 to January 2026 in Morocco.

Nigeria’s dream of featuring in the World Cup was dashed as Congo DR eliminated the Super Eagles in a dramatic qualifier playoff on Sunday night in Morocco.

The Super Eagles lost in a penalty shootout after the game ended 1-1 in extra time. DR Congo triumphed 4-3 on penalties to advance to the Inter-Confederation play-off, keeping their own 2026 World Cup hopes alive.

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Tinubu, however, said although it was painful that Nigeria failed to qualify for the World Cup tournament for the second consecutive time, the team must be commended for striving hard to reach the Mundial, particularly after winning their first playoff match.

A statement issued on Monday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga quoted the president as saying: “Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them.

“We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board.

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

The Star