Adeyinka Adeboye Calls On Nigerians To Back Super Eagles Ahead Of Crucial World Cup Qualifier Playoffs
By Saheed Afolabi
Adeyinka Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Nigeria President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, has urged Nigerians worldwide to stay composed, cohesive, and wholeheartedly behind the Super Eagles as they gear up for today’s critical continental playoff semifinal against Gabon in Morocco.
Addressing the nation from Morocco, where he has joined the squad in advance of the match, Adeboye labeled the day as a watershed moment in Nigerian football, demanding absolute national solidarity.
“Today is an immensely significant day for Nigeria. I urge every Nigerian to remain calm, stay united, and steer clear of any negativity. Let’s direct our collective energy toward prayers and unwavering support for the Super Eagles,” Adeboye said.
The high-stakes semifinal is vital for Nigeria’s ambitions of reaching Sunday’s final and paving the way to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Gabon led by Thierry Mouyouma, is poised to deploy a formidable squad including Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Denis Bouanga, Mario Lemina, Didier Ndong, and midfield orchestrator Guélor Kanga. Their tactic revolves around a rapid, intricate short-passing game aimed at compelling Nigeria to play on the back foot.
Adeboye voiced unwavering faith in Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who has kept his strategies under wraps. Nigeria boasts a strong historical edge, having triumphed in five of nine previous encounters with Gabon.
He emphasized that the match offers no room for a draw, underscoring the need for composure and togetherness.
“Our players sense the nation’s pulse. They thrive on encouragement, not anxiety, on unity, not discord.
“I’m right here with the team in Morocco, and I can confidently tell every Nigerian that the camp’s morale is sky-high. The country’s prayers and backing are crucial at this juncture.”
Adeboye further highlighted President Tinubu’s dedication to advancing football and the renewed hope initiative, noting that Nigeria’s soccer resurgence is well underway.
“Nigeria will triumph today. We have a history of rising in tough times. United, we will overcome this hurdle.”
