Nigeria qualified for the semifinals of AFCON 2025 despite a familiar tale of unpaid bonuses and failed promises.
Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi is confident the Super Eagles possess the experience needed to overcome a hostile atmosphere when they face host nation Morocco in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Okocha backs Super Eagles players in bonus row with NFF
Legendary midfielder Jay-Jay Okocha, speaking on the Clutch9 podcast, explained the players’ firm stance:
“The people running the affairs of football in Africa have no idea that looking after players is vital to success.
“It is sad that players are yet to receive match bonuses after performing well for their country.
“Players know that once they leave, they might not get that money back, and that’s why they try to get what they are entitled to before they go into the next round.
“People don’t understand that you only get match bonuses when you win, and that is your livelihood, what you deserve.”
Okocha recalled the systemic issues that have plagued the national team for decades. “I faced the same thing during my time; we were owed bonuses as well, but during our time, there was no social media.”
Nigeria’s captain Wilfred Ndidi has shown the leadership qualities that gave him the Super Eagles armband by offering to pay outstanding bonuses for his teammates and country staff
Despite the off-field distractions and administrative failures, the Super Eagles showed incredible resilience on the pitch, defeating Algeria 2-0 to advance to the semi-final.
Eric Chelle’s men now march on to face tournament hosts Morocco in what promises to be an explosive semifinal.