Shina Peller praises resilient Super Eagles after AFCON 2025 bronze

By : Guardian Nigeria

Date: 17 January 2026 7:00pm WAT

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Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of Nigeria and Bruno Onyemaechi of Nigeria celebrate during the AFCON 3rd place match between Nigeria and Egypt at Mohammed V stadium, Casablanca, Morocco on January 17, 2026. (Photo by AFP)

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of Nigeria and Bruno Onyemaechi of Nigeria celebrate during the AFCON 3rd place match between Nigeria and Egypt at Mohammed V stadium, Casablanca, Morocco on January 17, 2026. (Photo by AFP)

Shina Peller, the Ayedero of Yorubaland, has commended the Super Eagles for what he described as a spirited and confidence-restoring campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, despite the team falling short of the final.

In a statement issued on Saturday, following Nigeria’s third-place finish, Peller said the Super Eagles had restored pride and belief among football supporters at home and abroad. He noted that the team’s performances reflected the enduring character of Nigerian football, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title came to an end in the semi-final after a goalless draw against Morocco national football team, with the hosts advancing 4–2 on penalties at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Peller described the match as one of the defining fixtures of the competition, widely viewed by fans and analysts as a final-level contest in terms of intensity and quality.

He said the penalty shootout loss to the AFCON 2025 hosts should not overshadow the progress shown by the team throughout the tournament. According to him, the Super Eagles demonstrated tactical discipline, mental strength and unity, qualities he believes are essential for long-term success on the international stage.

Peller also highlighted Nigeria’s response to the semi-final setback, pointing to the third-place playoff victory over Egypt on Saturday in Casablanca as evidence of resilience. The Super Eagles secured the bronze medal after another penalty shootout win, following a goalless encounter, a result he said underlined the team’s ability to recover from disappointment.

While acknowledging the frustration of missing out on the final, Peller, a former federal legislator, urged Nigerians to continue backing the national team as preparations begin for future international competitions. He said the AFCON 2025 campaign should be seen as part of a broader rebuilding process rather than a missed opportunity alone.

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