Nigeria’s Sports Minister, Sunday Dare has commended the Super Eagles, even though the ultimate objective of lifting the Africa Cup of Nations was not achived.
In a 11-paragraph press release, the minister concluded that the Super Eagles will still soar higher as they prepare for the higher stake, which is to qualify for the World Cup.
“From all indications, Nigeria believes in them. President Muhammadu Buhari believes in them and I, as Minister, also have full belief in them.
“They will in fact be encouraged and supported to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup finals later this year and the 2023 African Cup of Nations Tournament in Cote’d Ivoire next year.
This Super Eagles team will show the world the great heights to which truly they can soar”, Sunday Dare remarked.
He commended Austin Eguavoen and the coaching staff and concluded that they gave a strong performance.
Also Read: Eguavoen steps down as Super Eagles interim coach
“They faced the challenge bravely and gave a good account of themselves. They did their very best and that is all we can ask of them.”
Continuing, the minister remarked “We will lift the spirit of our boys and as professionals they will look beyond AFCON and continue to work with their technical team to ensure continuous improvement.
“The overall performance of the team during this tournament shows we have regained our better footing and are heading in the proper direction.
“Our football, once again was fluid, purposeful and beautiful to watch. We have a good team and Nigeria will help them to get better.
“I also want to use this opportunity to thank soccer-loving Nigerians who followed the team’s participation at the competition. I thank the Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) for rising up to the task and for its commitment to ensuring that every support was given to the team.
“I have been assured by the NFF leadership that its technical team will conduct a comprehensive appraisal and lessons learned will be exercised on this AFCON experience.
“We will emerge from this better, stronger, more aware of what we need to improve on and make this team satisfy the aspirations of an eager and hopeful football loving nation.”
(Editor Paul Akhagbemhe)
