Controversial Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has ignited heated reactions online after openly celebrating the Super Eagles’ failure to reach the final of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria’s national team saw their title hopes crash on Wednesday night after a dramatic semifinal defeat to host nation Morocco. The encounter ended goalless after regulation time and extra time, forcing a penalty shootout that eventually handed Morocco a 4–2 victory.
With the loss, Nigeria’s dream of lifting a fourth AFCON trophy was cut short. Missed penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyeamachi proved costly, sending the Eagles out of the title race.
While many fans expressed disappointment and heartbreak, Speed Darlington took a sharply different stance.
Reacting on X (formerly Twitter), the singer appeared relieved by the outcome, suggesting that the ruling APC-led government would not be able to use an AFCON victory as a political talking point. His blunt post read: “Thank God APC can’t add AFCON to their list of achievements to hide their years of failure. AFCON bye bye.”
The comment quickly spread across social media, drawing mixed reactions. Some users criticized the singer for politicizing national football and celebrating a collective loss, while others saw his post as a reflection of widespread public frustration beyond sports.
Despite the setback, the Super Eagles are not done with the tournament. They are set to face Egypt in the third-place playoff, with a bronze medal still within reach.
As the debate rages on, Speed Darlington’s remark has once again proven how football, politics, and celebrity opinions remain tightly intertwined in Nigeria’s public discourse.