Following Nigeria’s defeat to Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria’s Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, delivered a stirring message of encouragement to the Super Eagles players and officials, MySportDab reports.
Despite the 2-1 loss against the hosts in a tightly contested match at the Alassane Quattara Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan, Shettima praised the team’s efforts and resilience.
The game saw William Troost-Ekong provide an early lead for the Super Eagles in the first half, only to witness a remarkable comeback from the Ivorian side, with goals from Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller securing victory for the hosts.
Addressing the team post-match, Vice-President Shettima emphasized the importance of maintaining determination and resilience in the face of defeat. He reassured the players that setbacks are a part of the journey and encouraged them to keep striving for success.
Shettima’s words resonated with optimism as he reminded the team of the valuable lessons to be learned from disappointments. He highlighted the significance of having aspirations and dreams, even in the face of adversity.
Recognizing the disappointment of falling short in the final, Shettima urged the Super Eagles to remain optimistic and focused on future opportunities.
He drew attention to the progress made by the team throughout the tournament, emphasizing the nation’s pride in their achievements.
Furthermore, Shettima underscored the role of football in fostering national unity and solidarity, reminding the players of their significance in the eyes of the nation.
He conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s regards and assured the team of the nation’s unwavering support and appreciation for their dedication.
In conclusion, Shettima encouraged the Super Eagles to learn from their mistakes, maintain unity, and remain resilient in pursuit of future success.
His words served as a rallying cry for the team to stay determined and focused on the journey ahead, with the assurance of the nation standing firmly behind them.
