AFCON 2025: NFF Explains Eagles’ Medal Ceremony Absence

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has explained why Super Eagles players skipped the bronze medal ceremony at AFCON 2025 after defeating Egypt in the third-place match. The incident occurred immediately after the final whistle at the tournament venue.

According to the NFF, the players were unaware of the ceremony protocol and were directed to the dressing room by match officials. “There was no act of protest or disrespect,” an NFF official clarified, stressing it was a coordination lapse rather than a deliberate decision.

The federation added that the team had already begun post-match recovery procedures when the ceremony commenced. Nigeria finished the tournament third, capping their campaign with a late win and securing a podium place despite a demanding schedule.