Tinubu Urges Super Eagles to Move On From DRC Defeat, Focus on 2026 AFCON

President Bola Tinubu has praised the Super Eagles for giving their best in the race to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, despite Sunday’s playoff defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Tinubu encouraged the team to put the setback behind them and begin preparations for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to hold from January to February 2026 in Morocco.

Nigeria’s World Cup hopes ended on Sunday night after DR Congo edged the Super Eagles in a dramatic playoff showdown in Morocco. The match finished 1–1 after extra time, with the Congolese side winning 4–3 on penalties to progress to the Inter-Confederation play-off and keep their qualification chances alive.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said that although it was disappointing for Nigeria to miss out on a second consecutive World Cup, the players deserved recognition for their efforts — especially after winning the first leg of the playoffs.

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

“We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board.

“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory.”

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