The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gearing up for another shot at continental glory as they prepare to compete at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, with hopes of securing a historic fourth title.
Nigeria last tasted AFCON success in 2013, but more than a decade later, the squad heading to Morocco represents a completely new generation. None of the players from the 2013 title-winning team are part of the current setup under head coach Eric Chelle. Instead, the Super Eagles will rely on a crop of elite talents who have made their mark both in Europe and on the international stage. Key figures in the squad include reigning African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen, in-form forward Ademola Lookman, midfield mainstay Alex Iwobi, and defensive stalwart Calvin Bassey.
Despite the quality within the team, expectations among Nigerian supporters remain guarded. Recent performances have left fans uncertain, particularly after the Super Eagles failed to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even after being given an opportunity through the playoffs. In addition, the team’s lone warm-up match ahead of the AFCON did little to inspire confidence, as it ended in a largely uninspiring display.
Nevertheless, the AFCON tournament in Morocco presents a chance for redemption and a fresh beginning. Beyond the quest for national pride and continental dominance, there is also strong financial motivation for both players and the coaching crew. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has consistently improved prize money for its flagship tournament, making AFCON more lucrative than ever.
For the 2025 edition, CAF has maintained a total prize pool of $32 million, matching the amount offered in the previous tournament. Nigeria has already earned $350,000 by finishing top of their qualification group, providing an early financial boost ahead of the competition.
Prize money at the tournament is distributed based on how far teams progress. A fourth-place finish in the group stage earns $500,000, while third place is rewarded with $700,000. Teams that reach the Round of 16 will receive $800,000, and those advancing to the quarterfinals will pocket $1.3 million. Semifinalists are guaranteed $2.5 million, with the runner-up taking home $4 million. The ultimate prize of $7 million awaits the team that lifts the trophy.
Should the Super Eagles go all the way and emerge champions in Morocco, their total earnings from the tournament would amount to approximately $11.6 million, which translates to about ₦17.4 billion. Such a feat would not only restore Nigeria’s status at the top of African football but also mark a major financial and symbolic victory for the team.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is set to kick off on December 21, 2025, and will run until January 18, 2026, with Africa’s best national teams battling for supremacy on Moroccan soil.
of Nigeria are gearing up for another shot at continental glory as they prepare to compete at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, with hopes of securing a historic fourth title.
Nigeria last tasted AFCON success in 2013, but more than a decade later, the squad heading to Morocco represents a completely new generation. None of the players from the 2013 title-winning team are part of the current setup under head coach Eric Chelle. Instead, the Super Eagles will rely on a crop of elite talents who have made their mark both in Europe and on the international stage. Key figures in the squad include reigning African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen, in-form forward Ademola Lookman, midfield mainstay Alex Iwobi, and defensive stalwart Calvin Bassey.
Despite the quality within the team, expectations among Nigerian supporters remain guarded. Recent performances have left fans uncertain, particularly after the Super Eagles failed to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even after being given an opportunity through the playoffs. In addition, the team’s lone warm-up match ahead of the AFCON did little to inspire confidence, as it ended in a largely uninspiring display.
Nevertheless, the AFCON tournament in Morocco presents a chance for redemption and a fresh beginning. Beyond the quest for national pride and continental dominance, there is also strong financial motivation for both players and the coaching crew. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has consistently improved prize money for its flagship tournament, making AFCON more lucrative than ever.
For the 2025 edition, CAF has maintained a total prize pool of $32 million, matching the amount offered in the previous tournament. Nigeria has already earned $350,000 by finishing top of their qualification group, providing an early financial boost ahead of the competition.
Prize money at the tournament is distributed based on how far teams progress. A fourth-place finish in the group stage earns $500,000, while third place is rewarded with $700,000. Teams that reach the Round of 16 will receive $800,000, and those advancing to the quarterfinals will pocket $1.3 million. Semifinalists are guaranteed $2.5 million, with the runner-up taking home $4 million. The ultimate prize of $7 million awaits the team that lifts the trophy.
Should the Super Eagles go all the way and emerge champions in Morocco, their total earnings from the tournament would amount to approximately $11.6 million, which translates to about ₦17.4 billion. Such a feat would not only restore Nigeria’s status at the top of African football but also mark a major financial and symbolic victory for the team.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is set to kick off on December 21, 2025, and will run until January 18, 2026, with Africa’s best national teams battling for supremacy on Moroccan soil.
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