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In a glowing post-AFCON analysis, a Nigerian journalist showered praise on the Super Eagles players for restoring pride in the national team.
In an honest post-AFCON 2023 analysis, Nigerian journalist Tunde Young didn't hold back as he dissected the performance of the Super Eagles.
Pulse Sports Nigeria reports the popular CrossFire star shared the impact of the Super Eagles' journey in Cote d’Ivoire on the nation's football landscape.
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Speaking on the latest episode of CrossFire, Young's words will surely resonate with football fans across the country as he reflects on the highs of Nigeria's AFCON campaign.
"The Super Eagles as a brand before this tournament, this tournament has saved the reputation of the Super Eagles," Young began, highlighting the transformation he witnessed in the team's public perception.
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"Nigerians were disconnected from the team, nobody gave a shit, rated this team coming into the tournament."
Indeed, skepticism loomed large over the Super Eagles' prospects as they entered the AFCON fray. Yet, as Young noted, the tournament served as a catalyst for change, reigniting the nation's fervour and love for the team, and restoring faith in their abilities.
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"A lot of people said we were going to crash out of the group stages in a group that had Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau," Young continued, emphasising the resilience and determination displayed by the Super Eagles in overcoming the odds.
"AFCON is our thing, 16 out of 20 semifinals - it is what we do. So, the tournament has restored people’s faith."
Young's observations didn't stop there. He commended the players for their commitment and passion, singling out stars like Alex Iwobi, William Troost-Ekong, Victor Osimhen and others for their exemplary performances on the field.
"For the first time, I actually feel like we have players that are passionate to play for Nigeria," Young added, highlighting the dedication and sacrifice demonstrated by the squad.
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"Iwobi played out of position the entire tournament, Osimhen runs around - if I win African Footballer of the Year, you cannot tell me to be running like I’m still selling gala in Oworonshoki."
Despite the heartbreak of falling short in the final against host nation Cote d’Ivoire, Young remained optimistic about the Super Eagles' future.
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"The only way forward is up," he concluded, echoing the sentiments of millions of fans eagerly anticipating the team's next chapter.
As Nigeria sets its sights on future AFCON campaigns and beyond, one thing is clear: the spirit of the Super Eagles lives on, stronger than ever before, thanks to the transformative journey of AFCON 2023.
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