Former NBA star and President of the Nigeria Olympians Affiliation (NOA), Olumide Oyedeji, has lavished reward on the Tremendous Eagles after their rousing end to the AFCON marketing campaign, declaring them “champions within the eyes of each Nigerian.”
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Nigeria signed off in fashion, outmuscling continental giants Egypt, led by Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah to clinch the ‘Golden Bronze’ in a tense third-place playoff determined by penalties.
Oyedeji described the Eagles’ show as fearless, targeted and worthy of celebration.
“You stood tall towards considered one of Africa’s greatest. This group confirmed character, perception and coronary heart,” Oyedeji stated.
The previous NBA massive man reserved particular reward 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 approach.
“Nwabali is a real champion,” Oyedeji declared. “These saves weren’t luck, they had been braveness underneath strain.”
From the penalty spot, Nigeria’s psychological energy instructed the story. Whereas Egypt blinked, lacking early by means of Salah and Omar Marmoush, the Tremendous Eagles stayed ice-cold.
When Ademola Lookman stepped up and buried the ultimate kick, the dam burst. Gamers wheeled away. Followers roared. Nigeria had made its assertion.
It was greater than a third-place end. It was a reminder of resilience, delight and perception.
Oyedeji additionally urged the group to construct on the momentum forward of the following AFCON, stressing the necessity for early preparation to make sure Nigeria goes all the best way subsequent time.
He additional applauded the Nationwide Sports activities Fee, praising the progressive management of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director Common, Chief Honourable Bukola Olopade, for his or her assist of Nigerian sports activities.
The decision from Oyedeji was clear, this Tremendous Eagles group might have received bronze however in spirit, they soared like champions.
