“The Super Eagles, based on their performance at the tournament, deserved victory but narrowly lost the AFCON trophy,” said the legislators.
A cross-section of the fans told journalists that having reached the final, the Super Eagles are the favourite to lift the trophy.
“We should be proud as Africans and the next one will be even better,” Mr Motsepe said.
“It is time to bring the trophy back home,” he said.
”I’m excited we played well and showed great ability and quality; this is what it takes to get to the final,” he said.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles are in pursuit of a fourth continental title in Côte d’Ivoire.
Victor Samuel, a footballer, noted that the defence of the Eagles’ also deserved commendation.
“I am very optimistic that we can defeat Cameroon and go all the way, but we need to score goals; Nigerians want to see goals,” he said.
Renard currently manages France’s national female football team.
Kingsley Ogbu said the Eagles can beat any opponent at the knockout stage if they are focused and avoid distraction.
