The Super Eagles of Nigeria stand to earn $7 million (approximately N9 billion) if they win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Ivory Coast.
The Nigerian team secured their spot in the final after a thrilling match against South Africa, resulting in a 4-2 penalty shootout victory following a 1-1 draw in 120 minutes of play.
Having reached the final, Nigeria, along with the tournament hosts they are set to face on Sunday, has already guaranteed a prize of $4 million.
Dr. Patrice Motsepe, the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), had announced a 40% increment in prize amounts of the AFCON winners before the tournament commenced.
As stated in the official announcement on CAF’s website dated January 4, the winning team of the AFCON will receive $7 million, marking a $2 million raise from the previous edition in Cameroon.
The runner-up will now earn $4 million (equivalent to N5 billion), while the losing semi-finalists, South Africa and DR Congo, will each receive $2.5 million.
Additionally, the four quarter-finalists will be awarded $1.3 million each.
Motsepe emphasized the significant progress made in enhancing the prize money for AFCON and other major competitions over the past two years.
He expressed confidence that a portion of the prize money would contribute to football development and benefit various stakeholders, including Member Associations in their administrative efforts.
KanyiDaily recalls that Nollywood actor, Muyiwa Ademola had questioned why football seems to be the only factor capable of uniting Nigerians without considering tribal differences.