'Reached the quarterfinals' – Super Eagles NL coach reflects on Africa Cup of Holland performance

Samuel Aloga, CEO and coach of Super Eagles Netherlands (NL), has outlined his team’s mission to unite Nigerian footballers in the Netherlands while promoting cultural exchange and community building.

"When you hear the name Super Eagles NL, you immediately feel the energy of pride, talent, and unity," Aloga told allnigeriasoccer.com.  

"We are far more than just a football team — we are a community, a family, and a bridge between Nigeria and the Netherlands."

Founded with the goal of connecting Nigerian players from amateur to professional levels, Super Eagles NL views football as more than a sport.

"For us, football is a tool — a language — to tell stories, connect people, and showcase our culture," Aloga explained.

He cited the team’s recent participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Holland — one of the biggest African sporting events in the country — as a key example.

"We proudly reached the quarterfinals, but were unfortunately knocked out after a tense penalty shoot-out.

"Still, it was an experience that brought our community closer together. We played not just to win, but to show who we are and what we stand for," he said, noting the involvement of both established players and rising stars like Ayodele Thomas.

Beyond competition, Super Eagles NL focuses on social impact.

"A major part of our mission is supporting initiatives in Nigeria," Aloga said, highlighting donations of sports equipment, organising youth training events, and creating cultural and sporting exchange programs.

"Our community is a place where Nigerian talents come together, inspire each other, and build something greater than ourselves,” he added.

"We believe football brings people closer together. No matter where you come from, once you step onto the pitch, you speak the same language."

Aloga stressed the importance of preserving heritage among young people in the diaspora.

"Super Eagles NL is a place where you can be proud of your heritage, and where you can show that pride to the world. Nigeria is not just our past — it’s also our future.

"Our dream is big: we want our community to grow, our projects in Nigeria to have a lasting impact, and our performances on the pitch to keep inspiring people. As we see it: We are here. We are strong. And we bring Nigeria with us, wherever we go."

Wale Adejumo

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