Adeleke reporters had reported the death of no fewer than five Nigerians who died as a result of the tension and shock they had during the enthralling semi-final match.
The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior male national football team, have mourned the death of some of their supporters who died while watching their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final match against Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Wednesday night.
Adeleke reporters had reported the death of no fewer than five Nigerians who died as a result of the tension and shock they had during the enthralling semi-final match.
The deceased persons are Cairo Ojougboh, a former Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters to former President Goodluck Jonathan; Peter Yunana, a National Youth Service Corps member serving in Adamawa; Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi, the Deputy Bursar of Kwara State University, Malete; Chief Osondu, a businessman, and Mikail Osundiji.
In a video seen by SaharaReporters, the captain of the team, Ahmed Musa is seen addressing his colleagues about the incident.
He urged them to see the incidents as a motivation to go for victory on Sunday, in the final match against the host country, Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast).
“We lost four good Nigerians because of the game yesterday, let’s make one minute of silence and after that, (Chidozie) Awaziem will lead us in prayer.
“For their families, there is nothing we can do, they just need our support right now. And Insha Allah, we shall lift the trophy for them, for our own country,” Musa said.
The team also mourned the departed fans on its X handle, saying, “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 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.
