AFCON 2023: Nigerians cancel Valentine's Day to mourn Super Eagles defeat

Popular Nigerian singer Chike has announced there will be no Valentine’s Day this year following the Super Eagles’ devastating Africa Cup of Nations final defeat.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that it was a black Sunday for Nigerians after a 2-1 defeat to Cote d’Ivoire in the AFCON 2023 finale. 

The ‘Egwu’ crooner took to social media to react after the Super Eagles were downed by a Sebastien Haller stunning goal after Franck Kessie cancelled out William Troost-Ekong’s fine opener. 

In a tweet, Chiké stated "No valentine gift for anyone this 14th. Naija lost!" He added crying laughing and flower bouquet emojis to soften the blow the post might convey.

The message humorously captured the sombre national mood in Nigeria as fans grapple with the team falling at the last hurdle at the 34th AFCON.

While said in jest, Chiké's tweet highlighted how the AFCON loss has dampened spirits amongst Nigerians, even putting Valentine's Day plans on the backburner.

The singer advised getting priorities right, emphasising mourning the footballing tragedy takes precedence over romance for now.

His post elicited some funny replies in the comments, with Nigerians, especially men, welcoming his suggestion.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles were expected to see off the Elephants in the keenly anticipated final.

However, the quest for a fourth AFCON title in Nigeria’s history ended in a heartbreak as Ivory Coast joined the Eagles on three titles.