President urges a full review of Nigeria’s football structure after DR Congo knockout, calls for renewed push toward continental glory
Our Reporter
President Bola Tinubu has praised the Super Eagles for their spirited showing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs, despite Nigeria’s painful exit at the hands of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday. The defeat marks the second consecutive World Cup Nigeria will miss, heightening scrutiny over the national team’s performance and broader football administration.
Nigeria were eliminated after a tense encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, where the match finished 1–1 after 120 minutes before DR Congo sealed a 4–3 win on penalties to advance to the intercontinental playoff.
The Super Eagles made an explosive start, going ahead in the third minute through Frank Onyeka. But DR Congo responded strongly, equalising in the 32nd minute via Meschack Elia. Extra time offered both sides chances: Tolu Arokodare narrowly missed a decisive header for Nigeria, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali pulled off a crucial save from a Congolese free kick. Yet neither side could find the winner before the dreaded shootout.
The penalties proved heart-breaking for Nigerian fans. Nwabali saved DR Congo’s first attempt, but misses from Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon swung the momentum. DR Congo held their nerve to progress, edging Nigeria out of a second successive World Cup.
In a statement issued on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu commended the team’s effort and resilience under pressure.
“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” the President said.
He, however, emphasised the need for a hard look at the state of Nigerian football, urging all stakeholders to undertake a thorough review of the team’s preparation, strategy, and structural challenges.
“We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board,” he added.
With the disappointment of the World Cup qualifiers now behind them, Tinubu stressed the importance of redirecting energy and focus to the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco from January to February 2026.
“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” he said, noting that lessons from the qualifiers should serve as motivation for a stronger continental campaign.
Tinubu also urged fans and supporters across the country not to lose faith, highlighting the dedication of the players in both playoff matches. He commended their resilience and encouraged Nigerians to rally behind the team as preparations begin for the continental challenge.
With less than two months to go before the AFCON kicks off, the Super Eagles face a crucial period of introspection and rebuilding — one that could determine whether the team reclaims its status as a continental powerhouse or continues to struggle on the global stage.