Super Eagles Head Coach, Eric Chelle, and the Federal Government have praised Nigeria’s national team for their resilience, discipline, and fighting spirit following their dramatic semi-final exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Nigeria’s campaign ended on Wednesday night in Rabat after a tense goalless encounter against hosts Morocco was decided by a 4–2 penalty shoot-out defeat at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Speaking after the match, Chelle described the loss as painful but insisted that his players showed commendable mental strength throughout the encounter.

“The match was never easy, but the players showed strong mentality and fought for every ball,” the Super Eagles coach said.

The clash, widely described as a “final before the final”, lived up to expectations, with both sides displaying caution, discipline, and tactical maturity during regulation time and extra time.

Mr. Chelle explained that Nigeria adopted an aggressive pressing approach to neutralise Morocco’s attacking threats.

“We pressed high because if you don’t press, you leave spaces and the situation becomes very complicated,” he said.

However, the coach admitted that the Super Eagles fell below their usual technical standards in key moments of the match.

“Technically, we were not at the level of our previous matches. I won’t blame fatigue, but we lacked movement and power,” he added.

Despite these shortcomings, Nigeria produced another solid defensive performance, with Calvin Bassey delivering an impressive display at the back. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also stood out, making a superb one-handed save to deny Hamza Igmane during the penalty shoot-out.

Missed spot-kicks by amuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, however, proved decisive, as Morocco converted four penalties to secure a place in the final.

Following the defeat, the Federal Government commended the Super Eagles for their efforts and the pride they brought to the nation.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris, said the team’s performance reflected discipline, unity, and resilience, values he noted were deeply rooted in the Nigerian spirit.

“Even in defeat, you showed character, teamwork, and resilience, and those qualities matter deeply to the nation you represent,” the minister said.

“Football has its highs and lows, but your effort, commitment, and fighting spirit throughout this tournament have earned the respect and gratitude of Nigerians at home and abroad.

“You reminded us that wearing the green and white is about courage, unity, and never giving up. Hold your heads high. Learn from this experience, stay united, and return stronger.

“Nigeria remains proud of you and grateful for the joy and hope you gave us during this competition. Well done, Super Eagles. The nation stands with you, always,” the statement read in part.