Enugu, Jan. 16, 2026 (NAN) Football fans in Enugu State have urged the Super Eagles to focus on their third place match of the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Egypt and forget about their defeat on penalties to host Morocco, in the semi-finals.
The fans expressed their views in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Enugu.
They acknowledged that the Super Eagles displayed determination and commitment but noted that penalty shoot-outs are often unpredictable.
Clement Nwankwo, a football enthusiast, said the Eagles played gallantly but were unlucky to have lost.
He said the team remained composed in spite of the intimidating atmosphere created by Moroccan supporters.
“They proved they are professionals because they were not intimidated by the crowd.
“Penalty shoot-outs can go either way; it is largely a game of luck,” Nwankwo said.
Similarly, Oluoma Mary said although she was saddened by the defeat, she took comfort in the team’s resilience with hope that they would win the third place match.
“I was really bitter and could not sleep, but I commend the team for dragging the match to 120 minutes before penalties.
“They did their best, but luck was not on their side,” she said.
Also speaking, Nnamdi Okoro, a member of the Rangers International Supporters Club, said the Super Eagles made Nigeria proud in Morocco.
“I love the boys; they performed very well and stood their ground despite hostile fans and poor officiating.
“They did not disgrace the country. After all, penalties are a matter of luck,” Okoro said.
NAN reports that many viewing centres and drinking spots in Enugu were filled to capacity as fans stayed late into the night to support the Super Eagles.
The Super Eagles will engage the Pharaohs of Egypt on Saturday in Casablanca, in the third-place match of the ongoing tournament. (NAN)
