Tag: Super Eagles

  • Super Eagles rank among Africa’s top three after AFCON exploits

    Super Eagles rank among Africa’s top three after AFCON exploits

    Nigeria’s Super Eagles have climbed to third place in Africa but retained 38th position globally in the latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings released on Monday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Eagles moved up from fifth to third in Africa after an impressive performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where they finished third overall.

    Nigeria now ranks behind AFCON finalists Senegal and Morocco, who are placed 19th and 11th respectively in the global standings.

    In spite of the continental rise, Nigeria remained 38th worldwide in the January 2026 FIFA rankings, reflecting stability rather than global progress.

    Algeria and Egypt occupy fourth and fifth places in Africa, while DR Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa, Mali and Tunisia complete the continent’s top 10.

    Morocco retained Africa’s highest-ranked side globally, with Senegal second, followed by Algeria, Egypt and Nigeria in the continental pecking order.

    Read Also: AFCON brilliance lifts Super Eagles to 26th in FIFA ranking

    Other African teams in the top 10 include Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, DR Congo and Cameroon, all ranked between 41st and 57th globally.

    Globally, Spain retained top spot, followed by Argentina and France, while England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Croatia complete the top 10.

    NAN also reports that Nigeria’s rise in Africa reflects a strong AFCON showing, including a 4-2 victory over Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday.

    The Eagles won six of seven matches, beating Tunisia and Algeria, but lost the semi-final to hosts Morocco on penalties.

    However, failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup may negatively affect Nigeria’s global ranking in future releases.

    (NAN)

  • Super Eagles’ bronze medal will inspire Nigerians, says Akpabio

    Super Eagles’ bronze medal will inspire Nigerians, says Akpabio

    The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has applauded the Super Eagles for defeating the Egyptian national football team to secure bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nation (AFCON) being held in Morocco.

    Akpabio, in a statement by his  Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, said the team’s achievements will inspire other Nigerians to always aspire for success.

    The statement  stated inter alia : “On behalf of my family, constituents and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Super Eagles on their outstanding achievement in securing the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

    “The match against the Pharaoh’s of  Egypt was a testament to your skills and determination, and I commend you for your exceptional performance.

    Read Also: Mikel berates  NFF on Super Eagles’ preps for AFCON 2025

    “Your victory is a reflection of the talent and resilience that Nigeria is known for, and we are proud to have you represent our country on the international stage.

    “I urge you to celebrate this achievement with pride and use it as a motivation to strive for even greater heights in your future endeavours.

    “Your achievement is a source of inspiration to millions of Nigerians, and we look forward to seeing your continued success.

    “Once again, congratulations to the Super Eagles on this remarkable achievement. May your bronze medal serve as a reminder of your capabilities and the heights you can reach with hard work and determination,” he added.

  • AFCON Bronze: Southern Governors’ Forum hails gallant Super Eagles

    AFCON Bronze: Southern Governors’ Forum hails gallant Super Eagles

    The Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has praised the Super Eagles for their heroic outing and bronze medal triumph at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing their performance as a victory of spirit, courage and national pride.

    Abiodun saluted the Eagles for playing what many adjudged as the most exhilarating and dominant football at the tournament, noting that the team went unbeaten in regulation time throughout the competition, winning all their matches except the semi-final, which was decided by the lottery of penalties.

    He noted that Nigeria’s outstanding record—scoring the highest number of goals in the group stage and conceding none in the knockout rounds before the semi-final—was a testament to the team’s quality, discipline, and the enduring excellence of Nigerian football.

    He further praised the Eagles for their resilience and mental strength, particularly their emphatic victory over the Pharaohs of Egypt in the third-place match, despite what he described as unfair officiating in the semi-final clash against Morocco, the controversial seizure of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s towel, and the intense hostility of the home crowd.

    According to him, the performance of the Super Eagles rekindled national pride and reminded the world of Nigeria’s rich footballing heritage.

    Read Also: NFF will decide my future as Super Eagles coach – Chelle

     “Members of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Nigerians from every corner of our great nation are immensely proud of these brave Eagles,” Abiodun said. “They were not defeated in regulation time by any team. But for officiating decisions that dampened morale, they would have stood tall in the final. Yet, they rose above adversity and finished strong, with dignity and honour.”

    He added that the Eagles captivated millions of Nigerians and football lovers across Africa, restoring the joy, flair, and fearlessness that once defined Nigerian football.\

    “They dazzled us. They fought for every ball. They reminded the world of the Super Eagles of old—free-flowing, fearless, creative, and ruthlessly clinical. They gave Nigerians something priceless: hope and pride,” he said.

    Governor Abiodun acknowledged that while the trophy narrowly eluded the team, their exit on penalties underscored the fine margins of football.

     “Yes, they did not lift the cup, but penalties can swing either way. What truly matters is the heart they showed, the unity they displayed, and the belief they restored in our national team,” he added.

    He concluded by expressing strong optimism about the future, stating that the Super Eagles and head coach, Eric Chelle, have ignited fresh hope in the hearts of Nigerians and laid a solid foundation for greater triumphs ahead.

     “Our Eagles have spoken with their feet. The future is bright, and Nigeria will rise again on the continental and global stage,” he said.

  • Pomp as Goldberg celebrates Super Eagles’ AFCON bronze  

    Pomp as Goldberg celebrates Super Eagles’ AFCON bronze  

    Goldberg Lager Beer on Saturday rounded off its continental soccer cup fans’ engagement series on a high note as Nigeria defeated Egypt 4–2 on penalties to claim the bronze medal at the tournament.

    The third-place match viewing, held at the Lion Wonder Arena in Egbeda, Lagos, doubled as another edition of Goldberg’s Festival of Drums and Light, bringing together football, music and culture in a calm but celebratory atmosphere.

    The Super Eagles and the Pharaohs played out a goalless draw  after regulation time but Nigeria kept its nerve in ensuing shootout to secure third place and ended  the tournament on a positive note.

    As the final kick was converted by Ademola Lookman, cheers rang out across the venue. Fans hugged, clapped and raised their drinks, many holding ice-cold bottles of Goldberg Lager Beer, marking the end of an emotional AFCON campaign.

    The event followed the same fan-first approach that has defined Goldberg’s activations throughout the tournament. Branded spaces, music, light entertainment and comfortable viewing areas created a relaxed environment where supporters could enjoy the game together.

    Live performances added colour to the evening. Small Doctor and Shoday led the entertainment lineup, with DJ Neptune also taking turn on the stage dishing hit songs to the delight of the fans and loyal consumers.

    Drums, chants and coordinated cheers echoed across the arena, reinforcing the shared rhythm that has become central to Goldberg’s Our Beat, Our Gold campaign. Even during the tension of the penalty shootout, fans stayed united, urging the team on with belief.

    Speaking after the event, the Portfolio Manager, Mainstream Lager Brands at Nigerian Breweries Plc, Laolu Babalola, said the festival underlined Goldberg’s long-standing relationship with Nigerian football.

     “Our involvement goes beyond the match result,” he said. “We focus on the experience, the culture and the pride that football brings. This event was another opportunity to bring people together in a positive way.”

    Read Also: 16th Round: NFF agree to pay Super Eagles $30,000 each

    The Senior Brand Manager, Goldberg, Kunle Aroyehun, said the bronze medal finish reflected the spirit the brand has celebrated all through AFCON.

     “This was about standing with the Super Eagles to the very end,” he said. “The result shows character, and the fans showed the same. Our Beat, Our Gold is about togetherness, whether the moment is joyful or tense.”

    He noted that the third-place match was an important moment for fans to appreciate the team’s effort. “The Super Eagles gave everything at this tournament. Finishing with a medal matters, and sharing that moment with the fans makes it special.”

    While the AFCON campaign is now concluded, Goldberg says the support for Nigerian football is far from over.

  • AFCON: Akpabio celebrates Super Eagles for winning bronze

    AFCON: Akpabio celebrates Super Eagles for winning bronze

    …says victory will inspire other Nigerians

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has congratulated the Super Eagles for securing bronze at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

    Akpabio sent his congratulations in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh.

    “On behalf of my family, constituents, and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Super Eagles on their outstanding achievement in securing the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

    “The match against the Pharaohs of Egypt was a testament to your skills and determination, and I commend you for your exceptional performance.

    “Your victory is a reflection of the talent and resilience that Nigeria is known for, and we are proud to have you represent our country on the international stage.

    Read Also: Police arrest three suspects over killing of housewife, six children in Kano

    “I urge you to celebrate this achievement with pride and use it as a motivation to strive for even greater heights in your future endeavours.

    “Your achievement is a source of inspiration to millions of Nigerians, and we look forward to seeing your continued success.

    “Once again, congratulations to the Super Eagles on this remarkable achievement. May your bronze medal serve as a reminder of your capabilities and the heights you can reach with hard work and determination.”

  • FULL LIST: AFCON bronze medal winners since 1957

    FULL LIST: AFCON bronze medal winners since 1957

    The Africa Cup of Nations third-place playoff has, over the decades, served as a defining moment for teams seeking to end their campaigns on a positive note. While the final determines champions, the bronze medal match often reflects resilience, recovery, and tactical maturity after the disappointment of missing out on the title clash.

    Since the inaugural edition in 1957, several nations have written their names into the AFCON bronze medal history, with Nigeria emerging as the most consistent performers in this category.

    Below is a detailed, chronological account of every AFCON bronze medal winner, including how, where, and when each medal was secured.

    2025: Nigeria

    Nigeria claimed third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after winning the bronze medal match, rounding off a strong tournament campaign beating Egypt 4-2 on penalties.

    2023: South Africa

    South Africa secured the bronze medal at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire after defeating DR Congo via penalties in the third-place playoff, marking their return to the podium since 2000.

    2021: Cameroon

    At the 2021 AFCON hosted by Cameroon, the Indomitable Lions came from behind to defeat Burkina Faso in the third-place match, finishing the tournament strongly in front of home fans.

    2019: Nigeria

    Nigeria won the bronze medal at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt after edging Tunisia in the playoff, a match decided by a solitary goal that underlined the Super Eagles’ defensive organisation.

    2017: Burkina Faso

    Burkina Faso claimed third place at the 2017 tournament in Gabon, defeating Ghana on penalties after a dramatic playoff that ended level in regulation time.

    2015: DR Congo

    DR Congo secured the bronze medal at the 2015 AFCON in Equatorial Guinea after beating hosts Equatorial Guinea in the third-place match.

    2013: Mali

    Mali finished third at the 2013 AFCON in South Africa, recording a convincing victory over Ghana to earn their first-ever bronze medal.

    2012: Mali

    Mali repeated the achievement at the 2012 tournament in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, once again defeating Ghana in the third-place playoff.

    2010: Nigeria

    Nigeria claimed bronze at the 2010 AFCON hosted by Angola after defeating Algeria, ending the tournament on a positive note.

    2008: Ghana

    Ghana secured third place at the 2008 AFCON on home soil, defeating Côte d’Ivoire in the playoff match.

    2006: Nigeria

    At the 2006 AFCON in Egypt, Nigeria defeated Senegal in the third-place match to finish on the podium.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Super Eagles secure AFCON 2025 bronze

    2004: Nigeria

    Nigeria claimed bronze at the 2004 tournament in Tunisia after overcoming Mali via penalties following a goalless draw.

    2002: Nigeria

    Nigeria secured third place at the 2002 AFCON hosted by Mali, beating the hosts in the bronze medal match.

    2000: South Africa

    South Africa finished third at the 2000 AFCON co-hosted by Ghana and Nigeria, defeating Algeria in the playoff.

    1998: DR Congo

    DR Congo earned bronze at the 1998 AFCON in Burkina Faso after defeating the hosts in the third-place match.

    1996: Zambia

    Zambia secured third place at the historic 1996 AFCON in South Africa, defeating Ghana in the playoff.

    1994: Côte d’Ivoire

    Côte d’Ivoire claimed bronze at the 1994 AFCON in Tunisia after defeating Mali.

    1992: Nigeria

    Nigeria finished third at the 1992 tournament in Senegal, beating Cameroon in the bronze medal match.

    1990: Zambia

    Zambia secured bronze at the 1990 AFCON in Algeria, defeating Senegal in the third-place playoff.

    1988: Algeria

    Algeria claimed third place at the 1988 AFCON in Morocco after beating the hosts in the playoff.

    1986: Côte d’Ivoire

    Côte d’Ivoire finished third at the 1986 AFCON hosted by Egypt, defeating Morocco.

    1984: Algeria

    Algeria secured another bronze medal at the 1984 tournament in Côte d’Ivoire after defeating Nigeria.

    1982: Zambia

    Zambia claimed third place at the 1982 AFCON in Libya, defeating Algeria in the playoff.

    1980: Morocco

    Morocco finished third at the 1980 AFCON hosted by Nigeria after beating Egypt.

    1978: Nigeria

    Nigeria claimed bronze at the 1978 AFCON in Ghana, defeating hosts Ghana in the third-place match.

    1976: Nigeria

    At the 1976 AFCON in Ethiopia, Nigeria finished third in the final group standings, as the tournament used a round-robin format rather than a playoff.

    1974: Egypt

    Egypt secured third place at the 1974 AFCON hosted on home soil after finishing behind Zaire and Zambia in the final group.

    1972: Cameroon

    Cameroon claimed bronze at the 1972 AFCON which they hosted, finishing third in the final group stage.

    1970: Egypt

    Egypt finished third at the 1970 AFCON in Sudan after placing behind Sudan and Ghana in the final standings.

    1968: Côte d’Ivoire

    Côte d’Ivoire secured bronze at the 1968 AFCON in Ethiopia by finishing third in the final rankings.

    1965: Côte d’Ivoire

    The Ivorians repeated the feat at the 1965 AFCON in Tunisia, again finishing third overall.

    1963: Egypt

    Egypt claimed third place at the 1963 tournament hosted by Ghana, ending the competition behind Ghana and Sudan.

    1962: Tunisia

    Tunisia secured bronze at the 1962 AFCON which they hosted, finishing third in the group standings.

    1959: Ethiopia

    Ethiopia finished third at the 1959 AFCON hosted by Egypt, behind the hosts and Sudan.

    1957: Sudan

    Sudan became the first-ever AFCON bronze medal winners at the inaugural tournament in 1957, hosted in Sudan.

    Across generations, the AFCON bronze medal has symbolised resilience and consistency, rewarding teams that respond positively after semifinal disappointment. As the tournament continues to grow in stature, these third-place finishes remain an important part of Africa’s football legacy.

  • Tinubu hails Super Eagles’ fighting spirit after AFCON bronze triumph

    Tinubu hails Super Eagles’ fighting spirit after AFCON bronze triumph

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles, on their bronze medal victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

    In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday, the President praised the team for their resilience and professionalism, noting that the players rose above the disappointment of their semi-final defeat to hosts Morocco earlier in the week to finish the tournament strongly.

    The Super Eagles secured third place after overpowering Egypt, a seven-time AFCON champion, in the bronze medal match. 

    Nigeria dominated proceedings during regulation time before edging their opponents in a tense penalty shootout.

    Tinubu said the victory was a clear reflection of the determination and can-do spirit that define Nigeria, describing the team’s response to adversity as exemplary.

    Read Also: Shina Peller commends Super Eagles AFCON 2025 run despite semi-final loss

    “Despite their good run during the tournament, the Eagles lost the semi-final match to Morocco during the penalty shootout last Wednesday, and our people’s hopes of winning the championship were dashed.

    “However, our players remained undaunted, and exhibiting the resilience of the Nigerian spirit, their efforts have now paid off,” the President said.

    The President noted that Nigerians would take pride in seeing the team receive their medals at the official ceremony on Sunday in Rabat, where the tournament is being concluded.

    “We will all be proud of them as they receive their hard-earned bronze medal. Thank you, our gallant Super Eagles. Thank you, our national team players. This bronze medal surely feels good like gold,” he added.

  • JUST IN: Super Eagles secure AFCON 2025 bronze

    JUST IN: Super Eagles secure AFCON 2025 bronze

    The Super Eagles clinched the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Egypt in a tense penalty shootout following a goalless draw in the third-place playoff.

    In a hard-fought encounter at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca on Saturday, January 17, both sides battled intensely but failed to break the deadlock after 90 minutes. 

    The match went straight to penalties, where Nigeria held their nerve to triumph 4-2.

    Ademola Lookman sealed the victory with a composed spot-kick, capping a dramatic shootout that saw the Super Eagles convert their chances decisively. 

    This win extends Nigeria’s perfect record in AFCON third-place matches, marking their record ninth bronze medal.

    Despite the disappointment of their semi-final penalty defeat to hosts Morocco, the Super Eagles bounced back with resilience and determination, ending the tournament on a high note and delivering pride to millions of Nigerians.

  • Shina Peller commends Super Eagles AFCON 2025 run despite semi-final loss

    Shina Peller commends Super Eagles AFCON 2025 run despite semi-final loss

    The Ayedero of Yorubaland, Hon Shina Peller, has commended the Super Eagles for their remarkable journey and resilient performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

    In a statement on Saturday following Nigeria’s narrow semi-final loss to the host nations Morocco, Peller praised the team for restoring national pride and showcasing the “undying spirit” of Nigerian football. 

    The Super Eagles’ campaign ended in a hard-fought 4-2 penalty shootout defeat against Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium after a goalless 120 minutes.

    Reflecting on the semi-final clash, which many fans and analysts described as a “final before the final,” Peller noted the intensity of the encounter.

    “The semi-final clash against the host country was nothing short of a spectacle, resembling a final in intensity and fervor. Both teams were desperate for victory… However, fate favored the Moroccans that day, leaving the Super Eagles without the desired outcome.”

    Despite the disappointment of missing out on the final, Peller emphasized that the tournament was a success in terms of rebuilding the national team’s identity. He urged Nigerians to remain supportive as the team looks toward to victory in the third-place playoff against Egypt which is currently ongoing, as well as future international competitions.

    “The Super Eagles made us proud. Their remarkable outing in the 2025 AFCON has rekindled hope and excitement for Nigerian football,” he added. “Together, let’s celebrate their achievements and look forward to even greater performances in the future.”

    The Super Eagles won the third-place playoff against Egypt in a 4-2 penalty shootout after a goalless 90 minutes.

    Peller, a  businessman, politician, and the Ayedero of Yorubaland, is a vocal advocate for youth empowerment and the development of sports as a tool for national unity.

  • Goldberg reinforces support for Super Eagles for Bronze medal match

    Goldberg reinforces support for Super Eagles for Bronze medal match

    As the Super Eagles prepare to face Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place match, Goldberg Lager Beer is once again calling fans together with another edition of its Festival of Drums and Light. The event reinforces Goldberg’s message that support for Nigerian football goes beyond wins and losses.

    Building on the strong turnout recorded during the quarter-final and semi-final matches, Goldberg is set to deliver another match-day experience on Saturday at the Lion Wonder Arena in Egbeda, Lagos.

    Activities will begin at 4:00 p.m. prompt, giving fans enough time to settle in before kick-off.

    The Festival of Drums and Light is a key part of Goldberg’s Our Beat, Our Gold campaign. The campaign has followed the Super Eagles throughout AFCON 2025 with viewing centres, cultural experiences and fan celebrations across Lagos and beyond.

    It draws from the rhythm, passion and togetherness that define how Nigerians experience football.

    This edition will combine football, music and culture. According to the brand, the Egbeda venue will host live performances from Small Doctor, Shoday, Hardvantage and DJ Neptune, adding colour and energy ahead of the Nigeria versus Egypt match.

    Fans at the event will enjoy Goldberg’s signature match-day atmosphere. There will be branded spaces, music, light entertainment and ice-cold Goldberg Lager Beer available throughout the evening.

    Speaking ahead of the event, Portfolio Manager, Mainstream Lager Brands at Nigerian Breweries Plc, Laolu Babalola Kunle, said the focus remains on the fans and the team.

    “Our Beat, Our Gold is about how Nigerians show up for football,” he said. “Whether it’s a final, a semi-final or a third-place match, the passion stays the same. The Festival of Drums and Light gives fans a place to come together, enjoy the game and celebrate the Super Eagles.”

    Read Also: 16th Round: NFF agree to pay Super Eagles $30,000 each

    He said the third-place match offers the team another chance to end the tournament on a positive note.

     “The Super Eagles have given a good account of themselves at this AFCON,” he said. “This match against Egypt is another chance to show character, and the fans will be right behind them.”

    Also speaking, the Senior Brand Manager, Goldberg, Kunle Aroyehun, described the festival as part of the company’s wider support for Nigerian football culture.

     “Goldberg has a long history with Nigerian football,” he said. “Our role goes beyond sponsorship. These fan experiences are about culture, connection and shared pride. Even after missing the final, it is important to keep the energy positive and support the team to the end.”

    Nigeria and Egypt share a long AFCON rivalry. Saturday’s match offers another chapter in that history. For many fans, it is also a chance to celebrate the Super Eagles’ journey and look ahead with optimism.

    From drums and lights to live music and football, Goldberg says the Festival of Drums and Light is its way of keeping fans connected to the game and to one another.