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Super Eagles mourn loss of lives after South Africa victory.

The Super Eagles observe a minute of silence in honour of the lives lost in the course of the semi final match and promised to lift the AFCON trophy for all who died watching them play.

Players and officials of the Super Eagles held a minute of silence in honour of some fans who died during their semi-final win over South Africa.

Nigeria qualified for the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nigerians after seeing off Bafana Bafana via penalties.

The semi-final clash between Nigeria and South Africa in the 2023 AFCON will be etched in the annals of Nigerian football history for both its triumph and its tragedy. On the field, the Super Eagles showcased their resilience and determination, ultimately securing a hard-fought victory over Bafana Bafana via penalties, propelling them to the final of the tournament. However, off the field, the jubilation was tempered by the heartbreaking news of several Nigerian fans succumbing to hypertensive complications amidst the tense encounter. The stark contrast between the elation of victory and the sorrow of loss cast a shadow over the celebrations, prompting reflection and introspection within the footballing community.

In the aftermath of the match, as the Super Eagles players and officials grappled with the bittersweet emotions of their triumph, they chose to honor the memory of the fallen fans in a solemn and dignified manner. Ahead of their training session and subsequent preparations for the final, the team gathered together to observe a minute of silence as a mark of respect for those who tragically lost their lives during the semi-final match. This poignant gesture served as a powerful reminder of the human cost of football’s fervor and the unbreakable bond between the players and their supporters.

The tragedy that befell Nigerian football fans during the AFCON semi-final served as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks and emotions intertwined with the beautiful game. However, amidst the grief and sorrow, there emerged a palpable sense of unity and solidarity within the football community. The Super Eagles’ tribute to the fallen fans exemplified the profound impact that football can have in transcending barriers and fostering a sense of togetherness in times of adversity. Across Nigeria and beyond, football enthusiasts came together to mourn the loss of their fellow supporters, reaffirming the unbreakable bonds forged through a shared love for the game.

However, the emotions and tension of the game appeared to get to some fans.

At least five people have been reported dead while watching the encounter.

They include a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), “Nwachinemelu,”
Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, a corps member serving in Adamawa State, simply identified as Samuel; Deputy Bursar, Kwara State University, Malete; Ayuba Abdullahi; and Mikail Osundiji of the Olomoore area of Abeokuta, Ogun State.

It was also gathered that one Anambra-born businessman, Osondu Nwoye, who was based in Cote d’Ivoire, reportedly collapsed inside the stadium and later died in a hospital.

During their team meeting on Thursday, Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa shared the news with the rest of the squad.

Musa also prayed for the souls of the departed as they stood and observed the moment of silence.

READ ALSO: Ivory Coast to battle Nigeria’s Super Eagles in final

As the Super Eagles prepare to contest the final of the 2023 AFCON, they carry with them the memories and legacy of the fans who tragically passed away during their journey to the summit of African football. While the pain of loss lingers, the spirit of resilience and solidarity embodied by the team and its supporters serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the future. As they take to the field to compete for continental glory, the Super Eagles do so not only for themselves but also in honor of those who will forever remain in the hearts and minds of Nigerian football fans.

The tragic loss of Nigerian football fans during the AFCON semi-final serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that football can have on individuals and communities. In the face of adversity, the Super Eagles’ tribute to the fallen fans exemplifies the resilience, unity, and compassion that football fosters, transcending borders and bringing people together in shared moments of joy and sorrow. As Nigeria prepares to contest the final of the tournament, the memory of those who passed away will serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, reminding us all of the enduring power of the beautiful game to unite and uplift even in the darkest of times.

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