AFCON 2023: Angola receive massive reward ahead of Nigeria clash

The Super Eagles completely dominated Cameroon in Abidjan on Saturday on the road to securing a place in the quarterfinals at the AFCON

The Angola national football team finds itself basking in the glory of well-deserved rewards after securing a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Palancas Negras, fresh off a commanding 3-0 victory over Namibia in the Round-of-16, are set to face Nigeria in a highly anticipated clash on Friday with hopes of sealing an unprecedented semifinal berth at the premier African competition.

According to Angop, Banco Angolano de Investimento (BAI) has announced a substantial reward of five million Kwanzas (approximately 5.41 million naira) for each Angola player and coaching staff in recognition of their quarterfinal qualification.

This financial boost is a testament to the team’s outstanding performance on the pitch.

Adding to the fervour, Aguinaldo Jaime, the President of the Board of Directors of UNITEL, has gone above and beyond, gifting each member of the Angolan delegation in Cote d’Ivoire an iPhone 15, complete with complimentary calls, SMS, and free internet for a year.

This gesture not only underscores the team’s achievement but also reflects the widespread enthusiasm surrounding their journey in the competition.

As the anticipation builds, SODIAM EP has thrown down the gauntlet, promising a substantial US$250,000 (equivalent to 225 million naira) to the national team and technical staff should Angola triumph over Nigeria and advance to the final of this 34th edition of the Nations Cup.

However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, especially when facing three-time AFCON winners Nigeria.

Ranked as the 40th best footballing nation globally, Nigeria hold a considerable advantage, sitting 77 places ahead of Angola.

Both teams enter this match unbeaten in the tournament, with Nigeria’s noteworthy victories against Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau and a remarkable triumph over four-time winners Cameroon in the last eight.

Ademola Lookman’s brilliant brace during the clash against Cameroon was the highlight of Nigeria’s excellent display, setting the stage for an intense face-off with Angola.

While the Palancas Negras are eyeing their first-ever semifinal appearance, Nigeria boast a track record of reaching the semifinals in 15 out of their previous 19 appearances at the competition.