You did well, now focus on AFCON after World Cup heartbreak, Tinubu advises Eagles

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the Super Eagles to shift attention to the 2026 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, urging the team to recover quickly from Sunday’s World Cup playoff defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President said the team must now “focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations” after narrowly missing out on a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the second consecutive cycle.

Nigeria’s qualification hopes were extinguished in Rabat after a tense match ended 1-1 in extra time, with DR Congo edging the Eagles 4-3 on penalties to move into the Inter-Confederation play-off.

Despite the disappointment,Tinubu commended the players for their determination throughout the qualifiers, noting that they had shown resilience, particularly after winning the first leg of the playoff.

“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” he said.

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The President also called for a comprehensive review of the country’s football operations, urging administrators, coaches, players and stakeholders to return to the drawing board and “plug all the loopholes” that undermined the qualification campaign.

While acknowledging the pain felt by fans nationwide, he stressed that the upcoming AFCON—scheduled for January to February 2026—provides an immediate opportunity for redemption.

“Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” President Tinubu said, rallying the team to prepare adequately and aim for a strong continental outing.

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