President Bola Tinubu has praised the Super Eagles for their resilience and commitment despite Sunday’s painful exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers following a penalty shootout loss to DR Congo.

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the expanded 48-team World Cup were dashed at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, where the Congolese advanced to the intercontinental playoffs after a tense 4–3 victory on penalties. The match had ended 1–1 after 120 minutes.

Frank Onyeka fired Nigeria ahead in the third minute, but DR Congo hit back in the 32nd minute through Meschack Elia. Both teams had chances in extra time, with Tolu Arokodare heading wide for Nigeria and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali producing a crucial save from a free kick to keep the Eagles alive. Neither side could find a winner before the shootout.

During the penalties, Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed their spot-kicks, while Nwabali saved DR Congo’s first attempt.

The Leopards, however, held their nerve to seal a 4–3 victory, ending Nigeria’s bid to qualify for a second consecutive World Cup.

Reacting to the defeat, President Tinubu through a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, applauded the team’s effort and fighting spirit.

“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” Tinubu said.

He called on all football stakeholders to thoroughly review the team’s performance, stressing the need to address existing gaps ahead of future competitions.

“We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board,” he added.

Tinubu urged the nation to shift its focus to the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to hold from January to February 2026 in Morocco.

“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” he said, noting that lessons from the World Cup qualifiers should shape preparations for the continental tournament.

The President encouraged Nigerians to continue rallying behind the team, commending their resilience in both playoff matches and their determination during the high-pressure shootout against DR Congo.