The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has received a massive financial incentive ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations knockout match. The Federal Government, in collaboration with private partners, has pledged a staggering ₦14 million (approximately $10,000) bonus for every goal the team scores against Mozambique in the Round of 16.
Government Doubles Goal Bonus for Knockout Stage
This lucrative offer was confirmed by Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission. He revealed that the incentive represents a significant increase from the $5,000-per-goal bonus paid during the group stage of the tournament. The move is part of a strategic effort to fully motivate the squad as they pursue a fourth AFCON title in Morocco.
"We have fully mobilised the Super Eagles to succeed in this tournament," Dikko stated. "President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the AFCON Intervention Fund, and our partners have now increased the goal bonus to $10,000 for the knockout stage. The incentives will continue to improve as the tournament progresses."
Super Eagles Enter Knockouts in Stellar Form
Coach Eric Chelle's squad heads into the Monday night clash at the Stade de Fès brimming with confidence. Nigeria achieved a perfect record in Group C, winning all three matches against Tanzania (2-1), Tunisia (3-2), and Uganda (3-1) to amass nine points.
Notably, the team's attacking prowess has been on full display, netting eight goals in the group phase—their highest tally in an AFCON opening round. This impressive form makes the new goal bonus scheme both a symbolic gesture and a potentially very rewarding one for the players.
Historical Advantage and High Stakes
History strongly favors Nigeria in this fixture. The Super Eagles are unbeaten in their last five meetings with Mozambique across all competitions, securing four wins and one draw. Their most recent encounter, a friendly in October 2023, ended in a thrilling 3-2 victory for Nigeria.
This match marks Nigeria's 16th consecutive appearance in the AFCON Round of 16, a remarkable consistency dating back to 1982. With a potential quarter-final against either Algeria or DR Congo awaiting the winner, the team is acutely aware that victory on Monday is a critical step towards continental glory.
The combination of soaring team confidence, a dominant historical record, and now substantial financial motivation sets the stage for what promises to be a highly charged encounter as Nigeria aims to continue its perfect run in AFCON 2025.
