As the Super Eagles of Nigeria qualified as the first African Nation for the Russia 2018 World Cup after defeating the Chipolopolo of Zambia by a lone goal in Uyo, FIFA congratulated Nigeria via its Twitter account.
“Congratulations Nigeria! The Super Eagles are the first African side to reach Russia!”
FIFA mentioned that the Super Eagles group was seen as the toughest group of the African qualifying stages.
Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi got the only goal of the day in the 73rd minute, coming in as substitute for Moses Simon.
Iwobi who has been a torn in the Zambians flesh also netted for Nigeria against Zambia in the first leg 2-1 win in Ndola.
The Gunners praised their man on the club’s twitter handle.
“#BIG17 scores the winner as @NGSuper Eagles beat Zambia in World Cup qualifying.”
Arsenal also congratulated the entire team for qualifying for the World Cup in Russia.
“QUALIFIED! Congratulations, Nigeria!
“The Super Eagles are the First African side to reach Russia!
“This looks sweet for @NGSuper Eagles fans!#WCQ,” they added.
The Confederation of African Football, CAF, also felicitated with Nigeria through their Twitter handle.
“Congratulations!!! @NGSuper Eagles is the first African team qualified to @FIFAWorldCup 2018.”
Super Eagles remain unbeaten haven won all matches played and drawing once against Cameroon in Yaoundé, thanks to a late minute penalty.
Nigeria has featured in five editions of the FIFA World Cup from USA 1994, France 1998, Korea/Japan 2002, South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014 and would make their sixth appearance at Russia 2018.
They also look forward to bettering their previous Round of 16, the highest stage reached till date.
The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the Germany 2006 World Cup, the first missed edition since their debut in 1994.
