By Ken Afor
The Federal Government of Nigeria has congratulated the Super Eagles for qualifying for the semifinal stage of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Friday.
The Super Eagles secured their semifinal spot by defeating Angola 1-0, thanks to Ademola Lookman’s goal in the 41st minute.
In a post shared on X by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Nigerian government commended the team for their outstanding performance in maintaining their one-goal advantage for over an hour. The Minister emphasized that the nation can achieve a lot when united.
He wrote, “The Government of Nigeria congratulates the @NGSuperEagles, their coaches and officials, and all Nigerians, on today’s remarkable feat of qualifying for the semifinals at the ongoing #AFCON.
“As I said two hours ago, victory is within reach. Not just for the recently concluded match, but for the AFCON Trophy itself.
“There is no limit to what Nigeria and Nigerians can achieve when we are united behind a common goal.
“May this winning streak permeate every aspect of our national life. God bless Nigeria.”
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, applauded the team for their victory, attributing it to the individual qualities of the players.
“Hard-fought victory, but well deserving. We won because of the individual qualities of our players and especially the quality of that final ball laid to Lookman who is likely to emerge the player of the tournament.
“Go, Super Eagles!!!,” Keyamo said.
Similarly, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praised both Lookman, the goal scorer, and Moses Simon, who provided the assist.
Mr. Onanuga highlighted that Nigeria’s qualification has equaled Egypt’s record for the most semi-final appearances.
“Congrats Super Eagles for qualifying for the semi finals of AFCON 2023, with vital goal scored by Ademola Lookman. Nigeria, qualifying for the 16th time, has now equaled Egypt’s record for most semi-final appearances. Congrats to Moses Simon, who provided the assist to Lookman and was also crowned Man of the Match. Congrats to Victor Osimhen for continually terrorizing the Angola defence. The goals will come, be rest assured,” Onanuga said.
Friday’s victory for the Super Eagles marked another clean sheet after a well-deserved 2-0 victory over Cameroon last Saturday in the round of 16 of the tournament.
The victory reestablished the Super Eagles as a football powerhouse in the continent, conceding just one goal after five matches in the tournament.
The Angolans were silenced after denying Nigeria a ticket for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in June 2005.
On Wednesday, February 7, the Super Eagles will face the winner between Cape Verde or South Africa.
