AFCON 2023: Angola get ₦5m reward each ahead of Nigeria clash

Angola players receive financial reward after Namibia triumph and have been promised more should they conquer Nigeria.

The Angola national football team, also known as the Palancas Negras, is riding high on a wave of well-deserved accolades and rewards. 

Financial Incentives and Technological Gifts

Having secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, they are set to battle Nigeria in what promises to be a riveting showdown on Friday. 

Their journey to this stage was marked by a decisive 3-0 victory over Namibia, showcasing their determination and skill on the African football stage.

As a result, Banco Angolano de Investimento (BAI) has announced a substantial reward for each player and coach. 

According to Angop the bank will be giving five million Kwanzas, equivalent to approximately 5.41 million naira, in recognition of their impressive achievement in reaching the quarterfinals. This financial boon is a clear indicator of the high esteem in which the team is held back home.

Adding to this, UNITEL, through its President Aguinaldo Jaime, has stepped in with a generous offer, gifting each member of the Angolan delegation in Côte d’Ivoire an iPhone 15. This is not just a token of appreciation, it comes with a year’s worth of free calls, SMS, and internet. The Challenge Ahead: Facing Nigeria

The path forward, however, is not without its challenges. Angola, now basking in the limelight of their recent successes, must face a formidable opponent in Nigeria. The Super Eagles, three-time AFCON champions, are ranked 40th globally, a significant 77 places ahead of Angola. 

Nigeria's journey to the quarterfinals has been marked by impressive wins against heavyweights like Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, and a stunning victory over Cameroon.

Nigeria's Ademola Lookman has been particularly noteworthy, with his exceptional performance against Cameroon setting a high bar for the upcoming match. 

Angola, while eyeing their first-ever semifinal appearance, face a Nigerian team with a rich history in the competition, having reached the semifinals 15 times in their previous 19 appearances.

The anticipation is palpable as Angola steps up to this challenge. However, SODIAM EP has raised the stakes, promising a hefty US$250,000 (about 225 million naira) to the national team and its technical staff if they manage to overcome Nigeria and advance to the final. This match promises to be more than just a game; it's a test of will, skill, and national pride.

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