Super Eagles stars Bright Osayi-Samuel and Akor Adams did little to hide their satisfaction after Morocco’s defeat to Senegal in the AFCON 2025 final, taking to social media with pointed reactions that quickly went viral.
The fallout from the highly charged tournament continued to ripple across Africa on Sunday night as Senegal edged the Atlas Lions 1–0 in Rabat, denying the hosts a first AFCON title on home soil. For many Nigerians, the result felt like long-awaited justice after Nigeria’s controversial semifinal exit.
“God Is Real”: Subtle but Powerful Reactions
Shortly after the final whistle, Osayi-Samuel a key member of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 squad posted a brief but loaded message on X (formerly Twitter):
“God is real.”
The post was widely interpreted as a reference to Nigeria’s tense semifinal loss to Morocco, a match overshadowed by officiating controversies and unsporting incidents, including the repeated disappearance of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s towel during set-pieces.
Sevilla striker Akor Adams quickly echoed the sentiment, replying simply:
“God is great.”
Within minutes, the exchange spread across Nigerian football social media, with fans viewing Morocco’s final defeat as poetic justice especially after similar accusations emerged during Senegal’s clash with the hosts, where goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was also reportedly targeted.
Lingering Anger from Nigeria’s AFCON Exit
Nigeria’s camp was left frustrated following their semifinal loss, with players and fans alike believing the match atmosphere and officiating were tilted in Morocco’s favour. While CAF made no official rulings on the incidents, the perception of unfairness has fueled a growing Nigeria–Morocco rivalry on and off the pitch.
For many Super Eagles supporters, Senegal’s triumph sealed by a disciplined defensive display and a moment of brilliance felt like an indirect vindication of their grievances.
Rivalry Intensifies as AFCON 2025 Ends
Senegal captain Sadio Mané lifted the nation’s second AFCON title, cementing the Teranga Lions’ status as a continental powerhouse. Meanwhile, Morocco were left to rue another missed opportunity, despite home advantage and massive expectations.
The reactions from Osayi-Samuel and Akor Adams underline how deeply AFCON 2025 resonated with Nigeria’s players and how the scars of that semifinal defeat are far from healed.
