Nigeria’s Super Eagles ended their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign on a strong note, securing the bronze medal and reportedly earning ₦3.56 billion in prize money. The figure has been confirmed by multiple Nigerian and international sports media outlets, including Nairametrics and Blueprint.

The third-place playoff match took place at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, where Nigeria faced long-time rivals Egypt. Regulation time ended in a goalless draw, with both teams showing tactical discipline and defensive solidity.

The match was eventually decided by a penalty shootout, where the Super Eagles emerged victorious with a 4–2 win. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali delivered a standout performance, saving crucial penalties and keeping Nigeria firmly in control during the shootout. His composure under pressure proved decisive, while Ademola Lookman converted the final penalty to seal the win.

This victory handed Nigeria its ninth third-place finish in AFCON history, the most by any nation, reinforcing the Super Eagles’ reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent football teams.

Breaking Down the ₦3.56 Billion Prize Money

The ₦3.56 billion figure is derived from the $2.5 million prize money allocated by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to the team that finishes third at AFCON 2025. At prevailing exchange rates used by local media, the amount converts to approximately ₦3.56 billion.

CAF significantly increased the tournament’s prize pool for the 2025 edition, a move aimed at boosting competitiveness, rewarding performance, and improving football development across the continent.

Here is a snapshot of the reported AFCON 2025 prize structure:

Champions (Senegal): $10 million

Runners-up (Morocco): $4 million

Third place (Nigeria): $2.5 million

Fourth place: $1.3 million

This increase represents one of the most generous prize structures in AFCON history and highlights CAF’s growing commercial ambitions.

It is important to note that CAF pays prize money directly to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), not individual players. How the funds are eventually distributed depends on internal agreements, government directives, and player bonus arrangements.

However, the financial implications are significant.

First, the funds provide an opportunity for the NFF to invest in grassroots football, youth development programs, coaching education, and better logistics for national teams. If properly managed, the prize money could contribute to long-term improvements in Nigerian football infrastructure.

Second, tournament success strengthens Nigeria’s commercial appeal. Finishing on the AFCON podium enhances the Super Eagles’ brand value, making the team more attractive to sponsors, broadcasters, and commercial partners.

Finally, performances like this help rebuild confidence among fans after years of mixed results, administrative challenges, and public criticism of football governance in the country.

Although Nigeria narrowly missed out on the final after losing in the semifinals, the team’s response in the third-place match demonstrated resilience and maturity. The Super Eagles showed tactical discipline, defensive organization, and mental strength , qualities that will be crucial in future international competitions.

Stanley Nwabali’s emergence as a reliable goalkeeper, combined with solid performances across the squad, suggests that the team is building a competitive foundation for upcoming tournaments, including World Cup qualifiers.

The real test now lies in how the achievement and the financial reward is leveraged to strengthen the future of football in Nigeria.