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3 days ago
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Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has lauded the Super Eagles for their resilience and sportsmanship in Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe.
In a post on X.com on Wednesday, Obi, who travelled to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to witness the match firsthand, praised the players for their dedication and fighting spirit.
He wrote, “Yesterday, I travelled to Uyo, Akwa Ibom state capital, where I joined a host of other sport-enthusiastic Nigerians to support The Super Eagles as they played the Warriors of Zimbabwe in their sixth match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.
“As usual, our team demonstrated the true Nigerian spirit of strength, resilience and dedication on the field of play. Football, and indeed sports, has remained a strong unifying factor for our nation battling with disunity.”
He added that while the Super Eagles did not secure the win, their determination and sportsmanship had won the hearts of Nigerians.
“While we may not have clinched the victory on the field of play, our dear players have, again, won our hearts with their obvious display of sportsmanship.
“I sincerely appreciate our dear national football team and, indeed, everyone whose efforts and sacrifices got us far in this journey. Our labours were not in vain,” he wrote.
PUNCH Online reports that Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico suffered another setback on Tuesday with a potentially damaging 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
After enduring a frustrating first half, Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock for Nigeria in the 74th minute of the game but Eric Chelle’s men couldn’t hold on to their lead as they were pegged back by the visitors in stoppage time.
Nigerian football fans also expressed mixed reactions following the Super Eagles’ disappointing home draw, with many pointing out the team’s lack of coordination, poor finishing, and reliance on individual talent.
English (US) ·