2026 World Cup play-offs: Bola Tinubu reacts to Nigeria’s elimination

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu praised the efforts made by the Super Eagles in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, despite the disappointment of their play-off final defeat to DR Congo on Sunday.

Tinubu called on the team to turn the page and now look ahead to the next Africa Cup of Nations, after the World Cup dream ended in a 4-3 penalty shoot-out defeat following a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes.

“Despite this regrettable outcome, we must pay tribute to the players for their commitment and continue to support them,” the head of state said in a statement signed by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The president also stressed the need for collective self-examination: “We must address our shortcomings. Officials, players and all stakeholders in football must go back to the drawing board.” Before concluding: “It is time to focus all our efforts on the Africa Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must reclaim their prestige.”