By Oluwatobiloba Kumoye
Former NBA star and President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), Olumide Oyedeji, has lavished praise on the Super Eagles after their rousing finish to the AFCON campaign, declaring them “champions in the eyes of every Nigerian.”
Nigeria signed off in style, outmuscling continental giants Egypt, led by Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah to clinch the ‘Golden Bronze’ in a tense third-place playoff decided by penalties.
Speaking recently after the third place encounter, Oyedeji described the Eagles’ display as fearless, focused and worthy of celebration.
“You stood tall against one of Africa’s best. This team showed character, belief and heart,” Oyedeji said.
The former NBA big man reserved special praise for goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose heroics between the sticks proved decisive. Nwabali saved two penalties, silencing Egypt’s stars and swinging momentum firmly in Nigeria’s way.
“Nwabali is a true champion,” Oyedeji declared. “Those saves were not luck, they were courage under pressure.”
From the penalty spot, Nigeria’s mental strength told the story. While Egypt blinked, missing early through Salah and Omar Marmoush, the Super Eagles stayed ice-cold.
When Ademola Lookman stepped up and buried the final kick, the dam burst. Players wheeled away. Fans roared. Nigeria had made its statement.
It was more than a third-place finish. It was a reminder of resilience, pride and belief.
Oyedeji also urged the team to build on the momentum ahead of the next AFCON, stressing the need for early preparation to ensure Nigeria goes all the way next time.
He further applauded the National Sports Commission, praising the progressive leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General, Chief Honourable Bukola Olopade, for their support of Nigerian sports.
The verdict from Oyedeji was clear, this Super Eagles team may have won bronze but in spirit, they soared like champions.
