Marrakesh, Morocco, January 7, 2026 – The Super Eagles of Nigeria have pocketed a total of $80,000 in goal-scoring bonuses from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and partners for their prolific performance at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The three-time champions, who have emerged as the tournament's top scorers with 12 goals in four matches, are reaping financial rewards amid their impressive run to the quarter-finals.
The NFF had pledged $5,000 per goal during the group stage as a motivational incentive, with additional commitments from sponsors and partners escalating the rewards in the knockout rounds. Nigeria netted eight goals across their three group-stage fixtures—defeating Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda—to secure $40,000. This tally made them the highest-scoring team in the group phase, showcasing their attacking prowess under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen.
The bonus doubled in the Round of 16, where partners committed $10,000 per goal for the knockout clash against Mozambique's Mambas. The Super Eagles delivered a commanding 4-0 victory on January 5, 2026, with goals from Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen (brace), and substitute Jerome Akor Adams, earning another $40,000 and bringing the total to $80,000. This dominant display not only advanced Nigeria but also tied a historical mark for the most goals scored by a team en route to the quarter-finals in recent AFCON editions.
These incentives come at a crucial time for the squad, which has shown remarkable efficiency in front of goal despite recent challenges, including failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The bonuses, distributed among players and staff, serve as a morale booster amid reports of delays in other payments, such as win bonuses from previous matches. However, the goal-specific rewards have been promptly highlighted as a positive reinforcement for the team's offensive output.
Nigeria's journey in AFCON 2025 has been marked by clinical finishing and defensive solidity. In the group stage, they topped their pool with maximum points, conceding minimally while overwhelming opponents with swift counter-attacks and set-piece proficiency. The 4-0 thrashing of Mozambique in the Round of 16 underscored their status as favorites, with stars like Osimhen—chasing the Golden Boot—and Lookman, the reigning CAF Player of the Year, leading the charge.
The Super Eagles now face a stern test in the quarter-finals against Algeria's Desert Foxes at the Marrakesh Stadium on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Algeria advanced with a hard-fought extra-time victory over DR Congo, setting up a repeat of classic North-South African rivalries. Nigeria holds a slight historical edge in AFCON encounters, but Algeria's technical prowess under coach Vladimir Petkovic promises a tactical battle. Additional incentives, including potential government pledges for further goals, could motivate the Eagles in this high-stakes matchup.
The NFF's bonus structure reflects efforts to incentivize performance amid financial constraints facing African federations. Similar schemes have been used in past tournaments, with private sector involvement—such as from businessmen Aliko Dangote and Femi Otedola in previous editions—often supplementing official payouts. For AFCON 2025, the goal bonuses have been a key talking point, rewarding Nigeria's status as the tournament's most potent attack.
Players have responded positively to the incentives. Captain William Troost-Ekong and midfielder Wilfred Ndidi have emphasized team unity, while forwards like Osimhen have credited the collective effort for the goal haul. The bonuses also provide tangible rewards in a competition where the eventual winners receive substantial CAF prizes, shared among the squad.
As the tournament progresses, Nigeria's free-scoring form has drawn praise from analysts and fans alike. With 12 goals already, they are on pace to challenge scoring records, boosting confidence ahead of the Algeria clash. The quarter-final could see further bonuses if sponsors extend commitments deeper into the knockouts.
Off the pitch, the Super Eagles have navigated minor distractions, including resolved on-field tensions and compassionate leaves, maintaining focus on the ultimate prize—a fourth AFCON title. Their relocation to Marrakesh for the upcoming fixture signals preparation for a potential semi-final berth.
This financial boost from goals underscores the blend of motivation and talent driving Nigeria's campaign. As one of the pre-tournament favorites on home soil for many African neutrals, the Super Eagles' efficiency has not only filled coffers but also ignited hopes of continental glory in Morocco.
The match against Algeria will be a spotlight fixture, with millions tuning in across Africa and the diaspora. Victory could propel Nigeria toward the semi-finals, where even greater rewards—financial and historical—await.
