More than 24 hours after the Super Eagles defeated the Chipolopolo of Zambia 2-1 in the 2018 World Cup qualifier played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia, President Muhammadu Buhari has described the victory as “cheery and soul-lifting.”.
The Nigerian team won the match played on Sunday, October 9, 2016 with two first half goals from Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi and Manchester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho.
The Chipolopolo pulled one back in the 71st minute through Mbesuma.
Commenting on the victory on Monday, October 10, 2016, President Buhari says the away victory over Zambia is not only tonic for Nigeria at a time like this, but also a confidence booster that the indomitable Nigerian spirit is well and alive.
According to the statement sent to newsmen by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Buhari said it was a sign of good things to come, urging the team not to rest on its oars till it eventually qualified for the global soccer fiesta.
“This is but the first step in a long journey. However, that step has been well taken. An away victory at this level, in which the stakes are quite high, is remarkable. The ultimate is to qualify for Russia 2018, and fly Nigeria’s flag alongside those of other giant soccer playing nations. I look forward to that, and I urge the team and their handlers to always keep their eyes on the ball,” President Buhari said.
