The Eagles lost 2-1 to the Elephants of Ivory Coast – the host nation, in a tense, anticipated final match.
Two goals from Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller helped the Ivorians clinch their third AFCON trophy after a first-half nodder from Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong put the West Africans in the lead.
However, despite the loss, some netizens appreciated the Eagles for their outing while some showed their disappointment in the players and the team’s coach.
Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Saraki, @bukolasaraki tweeted, “Proud of our Super Eagles. We gave it our all, but today wasn’t our day. Keep your heads held high, boys. The entire nation is proud of you!”
@GloriousOm75825 wrote, “The Super Eagles are too relaxed without much passing to mark. The hosts deserve the Cup. Without passion, no possession.”
@DanGadzama tweeted, “We didn’t play well, midfield was totally flat, imagine for a team playing defensive game. The players gave their all but the coach is not technically sound in my opinion.”
@iambolar wrote, “Many didn’t expect the Super Eagles to go this far, but they surpassed all expectations and played in the final. They will be back stronger. We keep believing.”
A user, @themmanuelfaith, wrote, “Anyways, it was a great run! Super proud of the team. Up next, World Cup qualifiers.”
@OgbeniDipo stated, “Congratulations Ivory Coast. You played well. Got a bit of help from the referee in the final game. But congratulations still. Great host. Good game. Well done Super Eagles of Nigeria. We need to try harder next time. We are Nigerians. We don’t give up. We will be back!”
@FaisalKaita tweeted, “It’s laughable to see how those who only watch football during tournaments like this to criticise Eagles. They had a plan and played it to the best they can but it’s not our day. Really proud of the boys.”
Another user, @Optimistic_Wini, stated, “Congratulations Super Eagles I am super proud of you guys!!! We did our best Undisputed!!! Scoring the first goal was a major hit! That alone makes me so happy. Proudly Nigerian.”
@Emaquelayt, tweeted, “By every standard, this team has over performed. Kudos @NGSuperEagles…. You have made us proud.”
One @MONSIEUR_JAMZY wrote, “You did a great job. Kudos to you.”
@Bola_S1445 stated, “Well done Super Eagles you put in your best. Congratulations Ivory Coast for a well-deserved victory.”
