Popular Nigerian musician, Seun Kuti, has come to the defence of Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze following criticism over his missed penalty in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final defeat.
Recall that Nigeria crashed out of the tournament on Wednesday after losing to host nation Morocco on penalties. The semi-final encounter ended goalless in regulation time before Morocco edged the Super Eagles in the shootout.
During the penalty shootout, Chukwueze and Bruno Fernandes failed to convert their kicks, while the Atlas Lions successfully scored all their penalties to seal qualification for the final.
Following the loss, many Nigerians took to social media to criticise Chukwueze, blaming him for the team’s exit from the competition.
Reacting to the backlash, Seun Kuti urged critics to ease the pressure on the winger, noting that even football legends have missed penalties. The singer referenced the late Brazilian icon Pelé, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history.
Writing on his Instagram story in Pidgin English, Seun Kuti said: “Even Pele dey miss penalty. Leave Chukwueze alone.”
Nigeria will face Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday, while Morocco will take on Senegal in the AFCON final on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
