By SCM SPORT REPORTER
NIGERIA’S Super Eagles have been handed a “mighty” motivation boost after the government officially signed over houses, land, and national honours to the squad.
The stars were rewarded for their runners-up finish at the 2023 AFCON, but the timing of the payout has sparked a golden start to their current campaign in Morocco.
Documents for new homes and certificates of national honour were handed over in a glitzy ceremony attended by top brass from the Nigerian presidency and the National Sports Commission. And the “hefty” gifts clearly did the trick on the pitch.
The Super Eagles soared to a 2-1 win over Tanzania in their opening Group match of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday.
West Brom defender Semi Ajayi was the hero of the hour, rising highest in the box to smash home a powerful header past Zuberi Masudi.
Former Everton and Leicester man Ademola Lookman also found the net, ensuring Charles M’Mbombwa’s strike for Tanzania was nothing more than a consolation.
NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for coming through on his promises.
Gusau said: “The presentation of the title documents has lifted the spirit of players and officials.
We expect even better performances in subsequent matches.
”We have the first three points, but we must be at our best against Tunisia to bag that Round of 16 ticket early.”
Nigeria now sits pretty in the group standings as they look to go one better than their silver medal last time out.
