By Esther Alexander
The Nigerian Super Eagles have clinched a remarkable N3 billion in prize money following their triumphant victory over the Angolan team in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
This impressive win propels them into the semi-finals of the 34th edition of AFCON, marking a significant milestone in their pursuit of glory.
The Eagles secured their lucrative N3 billion ($2.5 million) prize after a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Angola at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on Friday.
As one of the last four teams standing in the competition, alongside South Africa, their semi-final opponents, DR Congo, and hosts Ivory Coast, the Eagles have already secured a substantial N3.5 billion ($2.5 million).
Looking ahead, the Eagles have arrived in Bouake, Ivory Coast’s second-largest city, gearing up for a showdown against South Africa on Wednesday under the strategic guidance of coach Jose Peseiro.
It is worth noting that the increased prize money for AFCON winners was announced by the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, before the tournament.
Also, the winner of the TotalEnergies AFCON Côte d’Ivoire 2023 is set to receive $7 million, representing a significant 40% increase from previous AFCON prize money. The runner-up will now be awarded $4 million, while each of the two semi-finalists, including the Super Eagles, will secure $2.5 million. The four quarter-finalists will receive $1.3 million each.
Furthermore, South African billionaire, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, expressed confidence that the increased prize money would contribute to football development, benefiting various stakeholders and supporting member associations in their administrative endeavors.
The journey to the semi-finals for the Super Eagles includes impressive performances, including a 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea and a narrow 1-0 victory against hosts Ivory Coast at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
Continuing their winning streak, the Eagles secured a 1-0 triumph against Guinea Bissau at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium, followed by a convincing 2-0 victory against the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon and another 1-0 win over the Antelopes of Angola, both at the same venue.
According to the Nigeria Football Federation, the team is scheduled for one training session in Bouake on Tuesday afternoon, building on two rigorous sessions in Abidjan on Sunday and Monday.
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