The President of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation, Engr. Samuel Jackson, has expressed deep disappointment over the elimination of Africa’s leading representatives at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, describing the exits of Egypt, Senegal, South Africa, Ghana, DR Congo, Ivory Coast, Algeria and Cape Verde as heartbreaking despite their outstanding performances.
Jackson said the tournament has proved beyond doubt that African football has reached a new level, with the continent producing some of the most exciting performances of the competition.
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His biggest praise went to Egypt, who came within minutes of eliminating defending champions Argentina before suffering a dramatic 3-2 defeat after leading 2-0 late in the game. He described the result as cruel, insisting the Pharaohs deserved more for their courage and quality.
“My heart goes out to Egypt. They showed the world that African football has matured. To push the world champions to the edge of elimination is no small achievement. They may be out, but they have won the admiration of millions.”
He also commended South Africa, whose return to the World Cup after years away ended with a narrow defeat to Canada, describing Bafana Bafana’s campaign as one that has restored belief in Southern African football.
Jackson reserved special praise for Senegal, saying the Teranga Lions once again demonstrated why they remain one of Africa’s football giants despite their narrow knockout defeat to Belgium.
He equally applauded Cape Verde, making its World Cup debut, for taking Argentina into extra time before bowing out in one of the tournament’s most thrilling encounters, while Ghana, Ivory Coast, DR Congo and Algeria were praised for reaching the knockout rounds and competing fearlessly against some of the world’s biggest football nations.
“Africa may not have reached the quarter-finals in the numbers we hoped for, but this World Cup belongs to Africa as much as anyone. Our teams have changed the narrative. The world now respects African football because our players competed with courage, discipline and confidence.”
Jackson added that the performances should encourage African governments, corporate organisations and sports administrators to invest more in grassroots sports, noting that with sustained support, African nations can soon produce a FIFA World Cup champion.
“Africa’s future is bright. Today’s disappointment will become tomorrow’s triumph if we continue to invest in our athletes and believe in their potential.”
