Nigeria’s Super Eagles have received overwhelming praise from political leaders, public figures and football enthusiasts nationwide following their commanding 4-1 victory over Gabon in the 2026 CAF World Cup playoffs on Thursday.
The impressive performance at the Moulay Hassan Stadium has boosted the country’s hopes of securing a place in the global football showpiece, with the team advancing to the final qualification stage.
Akor Adams opened the scoring for Nigeria before Chidera Ejuke doubled the lead, while Victor Osimhen delivered a sensational brace to seal the win and maintain the team’s momentum heading into Sunday’s crucial encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The display, which many fans described as one of the team’s most convincing in recent years, sparked celebrations across social media as supporters commended the players’ hunger, tactical cohesion and improved efficiency.
Former vice president Atiku Abubakar, in a post on his official X handle, expressed pride in the national team, noting that their resilience had kept Nigeria firmly in contention for the 2026 World Cup.
“Proud of the @NGSuperEagles for giving Nigeria a fighting chance in the 2026 World Cup Africa playoff final. -AA,” he wrote.
Similarly, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi praised the squad’s discipline and talent, highlighting the importance of investing in youth and national sports institutions. Obi revealed that despite a demanding travel schedule that took him from Lagos to Abuja and later to Anambra, he made sure not to miss the match.
He described the win as “outstanding and well-deserved,” adding that the result demonstrated Nigeria’s potential when talent is nurtured and supported. “Today, the Super Eagles have made us proud,” he said, celebrating the team, coaching crew and fans.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar also commended the team’s determination, especially their strong finish. He described the 4-1 triumph as a “stunning comeback victory” and applauded the players for maintaining discipline throughout the match.
Football fans echoed similar sentiments, with many noting that the team displayed technical brilliance, fluid passing and control that had been missing in previous qualifiers. An X user, Joshua Sogunle, remarked that the performance was among the best he had seen from the Super Eagles in a long time, adding that the quality of play rivalled top European fixtures.
The win sets up a decisive showdown with DR Congo, with the winner progressing to the six-nation FIFA intercontinental tournament scheduled for March. The tournament will determine the final teams to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
As anticipation builds, supporters are hopeful that the spirit, confidence and precision displayed against Gabon will carry the Super Eagles through the final hurdle, bringing Nigeria one step closer to returning to football’s biggest stage.
