Players from the Nigeria National football team have come out to defend Fulham and Nigerian midfielder Alex Iwobi.
Iwobi faced online bullying and trolls from some football fans who blamed the 27-year-old player for their country’s 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 final.
The Fulham midfielder, who played for 79 minutes in the match before being substituted, was forced to delete all his Instagram pictures on Monday, February 12 following the bullying.
Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa and other teammates have come to Iwobi’s defense, condemning the targeted online attacks against the player.
In a statement, Musa noted that cyber bullying is a serious crime while pointing out that it was unfair to single out a player for the team’s loss.
Iwobi defended
“Dear fans, I want to please urge you to halt the cyber-bullying directed towards Alex Iwobi. Cyber bullying is not just a violation of decency but also a serious crime,” Musa shared on X, formerly Twitter.
“It is hypocritical to claim that football unites us while engaging in such behavior.”
Also Read: AFCON Final: Nigeria Issues Advisory Ahead of Super Eagles’ Ivory Coast Clash
The former Leicester FC player went on to add that losing a game is undoubtedly tough, but targeting a single player for the team’s shortcomings is unfair and unjust.
“We win as a team, and we lose as a team. Alex gave his all on the field, just like every member of our squad. Instead of spreading negativity, let’s show genuine love and support to our players.,” he added.
Musa further noted that all players needed encouragement following the loss more than ever.
The Super eagles ended up as runners up in the tournament after a highly contested final saw them lose against the hosts.
Loss to Nigeria
Nigeria took the lead through William Troost Ekong, but it was Ivory Coast who had the last laugh as two second half goals ensured they took the trophy home.
Also Read: Nigerian Politician Reportedly Dies While Watching AFCON Match
Meanwhile, in their run up to the final, the Nigeria National Football team revealed that some fans passed away while watching their AFCON 2023 semifinal clash against South Africa.
In a statement, the Super Eagles mourned the departed souls, describing the incidents as tragic and sad.
“During the course of our semi-final match, we tragically lost few supporters. In a cruel twist of fate, their fervent passion for the beautiful game unwittingly led them to their final moments,” read part of the statement.
It is reported that four men passed on under unclear circumstances in separate incidents while watching the AFCON game on February 7,2024.
