January 24, (THEWILL) – President Muhammadu Buhari has pleaded with Nigerians not to lose hope in Nigeria’s national male Football Team, The Super Eagles,
The President’s remarks followed the Eagles’ performance during the round of 16 matches in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.
THEWILL reports that Tunisia had on Sunday caused an upset in the Africa Cup of Nations by beating Nigeria 1-0 in the round of 16.
President Buhari in a statement issued on Monday by Garba Shehu, his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, said although the team did not live up to “our expectations in the tournament”, both officials and players deserve commendation for the tough fight they put up.
“They gave everyone the confidence that they were up to it, and I am sure it was something they could have achieved. Nonetheless, we should not write them off”, President Buhari appealed.
He urged Nigerians to encourage the players to do better next time, especially in view of the World Cup qualification matches that have been lined up for them.
The President directed the football authorities in the country to undertake a critical assessment on the Eagles’ performance at the Cup of Nations tournament and encouraged the general public to send their suggestions to the Nigeria Football Federation so that it will reflect and plan well for a better outing in the forthcoming World Cup competition.
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