Nigeria vs Gabon: President Tinubu highlights one Nigerian quality that helped Super Eagles down Panthers

Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reacted to the Super Eagles' World Cup qualifier triumph over Gabon, praising the resilience the players showed to get the result and egging them on to complete the task. 

Eric Chelle's side were triumphant against the Panthers in the semi-finals of CAF’s World Cup qualifying playoffs — a 4-1 victory. However, while the scoreline suggests ease, the boys needed extra time to secure the needed result after a 1-1 draw at full-time. 

Taking to X after Nigeria’s win, the grand commander of the Federal Republic stressed that the Super Eagles’ Nigerian spirit propelled them to glory. 

“This is the true Nigerian spirit of resilience against all odds,” he tweeted. “Do not stop until you secure qualification. Super Eagles, Keep Soaring... The nation stands with you. Soar!”

President Tinubu’s assessment of the game is an accurate one, as there were many instances in which morale levels could have taken a hit, or the players lost their heads.

The most significant was Victor Osimhen's incredulous miss, which could have sealed the game late on. He did not let it weigh on him, showing resilience as Mr President referenced and bagging a brace in extra-time. 

Some other instances include Wilfred Ndidi occupying a sensitive position like defensive midfield and playing nearly the entire duration of the match on a yellow card, Benjamin Frederick dominating an experienced striker like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Chidera Ejuke scoring the winner after his being in the frame for Gabon's equaliser, etc.