The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, has addressed why the Super Eagles players were absent from the medal ceremony following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
Nigeria secured third place after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties in Saturday’s playoff, marking the country’s ninth third-place finish in AFCON history—the highest ever. However, the players were not present to receive their bronze medals during Sunday’s final between Morocco and Senegal.
Gusau explained that the players were under pressure from their clubs to return immediately after the playoff match, preventing them from staying for the ceremony. Speaking on the matter, he told journalist Osasu Obayiuwana via X, “The players could not wait to receive their medals on Sunday. Their clubs were already after them to come back after Saturday’s game.”
He added that the situation was not unique to Nigeria, noting that Egypt faced similar challenges with their players. “I have the medals in my possession. And this is the case for Egypt too, not just us. Had the medal ceremony taken place on the day of the match, they would have had the medals,” Gusau said.
The NFF president’s statement clarifies that the absence of the Nigerian squad was due to logistical and club obligations rather than any disciplinary or organizational issue. The Super Eagles’ victory over Egypt secured their place in AFCON history, even if the team missed the formal recognition on the podium.
Do you think the NFF Presidents explanation is valid or just a cover-up for soing bigger? Im not convinced.
Why did the NFF President wait so long to explain the Super Eagles absence? Seems fishy to me 🤔 #AFCON2025
I wonder if the NFF Presidents explanation for the Super Eagles missing the AFCON 2025 medal ceremony holds water. What do you guys think?
Why couldnt the NFF President make it happen? Seems like a missed opportunity for the Super Eagles. Disappointing.
I disagree with the NFF Presidents explanation. Missing the AFCON 2025 medal ceremony reflects poorly on the Super Eagles and the organization.
Does anyone else think the NFF Presidents explanation for Super Eagles missing the AFCON 2025 medal ceremony sounds fishy? 🤔 #conspiracytheory