Morocco Awards Nigeria’s Coach a Standing Ovation After AFCON 2025 Third Place
18 January 2026
Post-Match Reception
Nigeria had been among the favorites to lift the trophy.
Nigeria's coach Eric Schill walked into the press conference hall to a chorus of warm applause from Moroccan journalists, following a 4-2 penalties win over Egypt to claim third place at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
Gratitude and Reflections
In post-match remarks, Schill thanked the Moroccan people, praising the warmth and respect shown to the Nigerian team throughout their stay in the country.
The Nigerian coach added that they were very pleased with the third place and extended thanks to every Moroccan citizen and to the organizing committee.
He noted that AFCON was hosted superbly by the country, and personally enjoyed his stay in Fez, where the atmosphere was outstanding.
Nigeria had earlier lost to Morocco on penalties in the semifinals, sending the Atlas Lions to face Senegal in the final.
Punchline 1: If penalties are a language, Nigeria's coach just spoke fluent applause.
Punchline 2: Fez learned that good vibes travel faster than a ball in extra time.
