The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team, paid tribute to those who lost their lives during their semi-final match against South Africa in the African Cup of Nations.
Led by captain Ahmed Musa, the team observed a minute of silence in a video posted on their official Instagram page on Friday, February 9. Musa expressed the team’s condolences and pledged to win the trophy in honour of the deceased Nigerians during the upcoming final on Sunday
He said: “Yesterday, we lost four good Nigerians because of the game. We wish their families the best but there’s nothing we can do. Insha Allah, on Sunday, we’re gonna lift that trophy for them and the country.”
During the Super Eagles’ match against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on Wednesday, at least five individuals tragically lost their lives while watching the game.
Prior to this, the Super Eagles expressed condolences for the fans via their official handle, stating, “During our semi-final match, we tragically lost a few supporters.”.
“In a cruel twist of fate, their fervent passion for the beautiful game unwittingly led them to their final moments as the Nigeria vs South Africa match unfolded, they were lost in the thrill of the game, unaware of the looming danger.”
The team extended prayers for the souls of the departed, wishing them eternal peace and expressing gratitude for their love of football and the unity it fosters.
Nigeria and the host nation, Cote D’Ivoire, will face off in the final match of the Nations Cup on Sunday, following their victories in the semi-finals against South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo, respectively.
