Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has urged Nigerian fans to stop cyberbullying Alex Iwobi, following Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast at the final of the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Super Eagles claimed a second finish at the 2023 (AFCON) after losing to host nation Ivory Coast in the final on Sunday at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong scored the opening goal for Nigeria, but Ivory Coast equalised through Franck Kessie before Sébastien Haller scored the winning goal for the Elephants.
As a result of the defeat, many Nigerian fans took to social media where they attacked Iwobi and blamed Iwobi for Nigeria’s loss to Ivory Coast.
Iwobi who featured in 79 minutes in Nigeria’s defeat to Ivory Coast deleted all his Instagram photos after he was dragged on social media by some Nigerian fans.
Musa on his official X made a passionate appeal to the fans urging them to stop the attacks at Iwobi.
“Dear fans, I want to please urge you to halt the cyber-bullying directed towards Alex Iwobi. Cyberbullying is not just a violation of decency but also a serious crime. It’s hypocritical to claim that football unites us while engaging in such behaviour,” Musa said.
“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. They need our encouragement now more than ever. Let’s uplift each other and stand united, both in victory and defeat. THANKS.”
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