AFCON; Nigeria qualifies for finals, Shettima promises rewards for Super Eagles

After the Super Eagles’ victory over the Bafana Bafana of South Africa, Vice President Kashim Shettima met with the Super Eagles  and pledged that the Federal Government would reward them for their “commitment and dedication.” 

This was disclosed by the Super Eagles in a statement and photos shared on their official X handle on Thursday. 

The statement read, “The Federal Government has promised to reward the Super Eagles for their commitment and dedication in reaching the final of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. 

“Vice President Kashim Shettima told the players and their officials in the dressing room, following their hard-fought victory over South Africa in the semi-finals on Wednesday, that the government and people of Nigeria are proud of their accomplishment. 

“The VP was in company with Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Minister for Youths, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim  as well as oil mogul, Wale Tinubu, FIFA Council member, Amaju Pinnick, and NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau.” 

The Super Eagles of Nigeria advanced to the final of the tournament after beating Bafana Bafana of South Africa 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at full time. 

Nigeria was leading 1-0 after the captain of the Super Eagles team, William Troost Ekong, scored in the 67th minute. 

Osimhen put one in the net late in the game but after consulting the VAR, the referee canceled the goal and awarded a penalty to the South African side and they were able to capitalize on the opportunity and equalize the game. 

Nigeria holds the record for the highest number of appearances at the AFCON semi-finals, having played 15 times.