THE Super Eagles of Nigeria have honoured the team’s supporters who lost their lives in the course of Wednesday night’s tense AFCON 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against South Africa.
The three-time African champions won the drama-filled encounter 4-2 on penalties after full-time and extra-time ended 1-1 at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, Cote d’Ivoire.
According to reports, the tension and drama of the match was too much for some of the fans, who slumped and unfortunately passed away while watching the game.
One Nigerian businessman based in Cote d’Ivoire reportedly collapsed around the time Victor Osimhen’s goal late in regulation time was cancelled after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review and a penalty awarded to South Africa from an earlier foul. The penalty led to South Africa’s 90th minute equaliser.
That moment was also believed to have caused the most harm, although the match officials took the right decision.
The Super Eagles media team shared a video in the early hours of today in which captain Ahmed Musa is seen leading the observation of a minute of silence for the deceased.
“Yesterday, we lost four good Nigerians because of the game and in their honour we’ll have one minute of silence. After that, Awaziem will lead us in prayer,” Musa says at the beginning of the 90-second video.
“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.”
According to reports, the dead included a former member of the House of Representatives from the Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State, Dr Cairo Ojougboh; the Deputy Bursar of Kwara State University, Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi, and a Nigerian graduate observing his National Youth Service Corps.
“During the course of our semi-final match, we tragically lost few supporters. In a cruel twist of fate, their fervent passion for the beautiful game unwittingly led them to their final moments,” the Super Eagles posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, late last night.
“As the Nigeria vs South Africa match unfolded, they were lost in the thrill of the game, unaware of the looming danger.
“May their souls find eternal peace, forever remembered for their love of football and the togetherness it brings. Rest in peace.”
The Super Eagles will face hosts Cote d’Ivoire in the final on Sunday night at the Alassane Outtara Stadium in Abijdan.
