“The Super Eagles have once again become a source of national pride, displaying the famous ‘never-say-die’ Nigerian spirit against top African opposition,” he said.
The minister noted that the Super Eagles faced challenges with determination and gave their best on every pitch.
It is an opportunity for either Egypt or Nigeria to salvage something from their campaigns at the tournament following semi-final heartbreaks.
The three-time African champions are scheduled to hold their first training session later this evening.
Egypt and Nigeria were scheduled to clash in a tune-up game in Cairo on Sunday.
Mane scored the winning penalty in a pulsating final against the Pharaohs of Egypt led by his Liverpool teammate, Mohammed Salah.
Egypt will face Senegal in the final on Sunday, while Cameroon will slug it out with Burkina Faso for a consolation third place medal.
Egypt’s coach Carlos Queiroz says his team’s goal is to offer the world a pleasant match when they face hosts Cameroon in the Africa Cup of Nations semifinal.
“We are determined to achieve a good result, go to the final and win the title. Playing at home is very special for us,” Anguissa explained.
