In a significant move to boost morale, the Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a substantial financial package for the national football team. A sum of ₦3 billion has been earmarked for the Super Eagles as they prepare for a crucial knockout match in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Financial Boost for Round of 16 Campaign
The approval comes as Nigeria gears up to face Mozambique in the tournament's Round of 16. The Super Eagles secured their spot after a flawless performance in the group stage, winning all their matches. Their opponents, the Mambas of Mozambique, advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.
The match is scheduled for January 5, 2025, at 8 PM at the Complexe Sportif de Fes in Morocco. This is the same venue where Nigeria played all its group stage games. Reports indicate the approved funds are intended to cover mounting tournament expenses and serve as a motivational bonus for the players and technical crew.
Furthermore, the Nigeria Football Federation has reportedly agreed to pay each player $30,000 for reaching the knockout stage. Additional financial incentives are expected if the team progresses to the quarter-finals and beyond. This move by the government and NFF is seen as a concerted effort to ensure the team's success and ultimately win the trophy in Morocco.
Chelle Enforces Media Blackout for Focus
Meanwhile, head coach Eric Chelle has taken a firm stance to shield his team from external distractions. He has restricted media access to the team's training facilities for three days, a decision that sparked complaints from Nigerian journalists covering the event in Morocco.
At a press conference, Chelle defended his action, stating it was necessary to protect his players and maintain their concentration on the critical task ahead. He emphasized that he would be held accountable for the team's results and needed to create the optimal environment for preparation.
"I have to take care of my players, I have to work. This is not targeted against you. I want my team to stay focused," Chelle explained. "We have a goal and an objective. But if I open the doors of the training session to you, we can't do that. Because if we lose, you will say 'Eric is crazy'. I prefer that everybody does their job, and after that, I will be judged."
High Stakes and NFF Expectations
The financial backing and stringent measures come amid high expectations for the team. The NFF has reportedly set a minimum target for Coach Chelle to reach the final of AFCON 2025. This follows Nigeria's runner-up finish in the 2023 edition under former coach Jose Peseiro and the team's failure to qualify for the last FIFA World Cup.
The current administration is under pressure to deliver success, especially after recent financial scrutiny faced by the NFF. This includes incidents like a training boycott by players ahead of a World Cup playoff and concerns raised over the management of FIFA development funds.
The approved ₦3 billion and the coach's focused approach underscore the national importance placed on the Super Eagles' campaign. All eyes will now be on the Complexe Sportif de Fes to see if this combination of financial motivation and tactical isolation will propel Nigeria past Mozambique and into the quarter-finals.
