Super Eagles’ key players Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong have been declared free of illegal substances by the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) anti-doping body, MySportDab Reports.
The duo underwent separate random dope tests following their stellar performances in the group stage of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire. CAF’s proactive stance against doping underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the tournament.
Earlier in the competition, Moses Simon and Ola Aina underwent similar tests as part of CAF’s stringent measures to ensure a clean and fair Africa Cup of Nations, free from the influence of illegal substances.
The continuous efforts to curb doping reflect the governing body’s dedication to promoting fair play and upholding the principles of the sport.
While Osimhen and Ekong received a clean bill of health in the anti-doping checks, Nigeria’s new number one, Stanley Nwabali, faces a race against time to be available for selection in the quarterfinal duel against Palancas Negras of Angola.
Nwabali, who assumed the role of the team’s goalkeeper, suffered a mild ligament injury during the Round of 16 clash with the Indomitable Lions.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) indicated that team medics are working diligently, conducting a late fitness test on Nwabali 48 hours before the crucial quarterfinal encounter. The NFF expressed optimism, stating, “Fingers crossed. If all goes well, he might be available for selection.”
In addition to the players’ health updates, the anticipation for the quarterfinal clash brings forth the significant prize money at stake. The winner of the Super Eagles versus Angola game is set to pocket $2.5 million (approximately N2.24 billion), according to CAF’s prize distribution structure for the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles have already secured $800,000 for reaching the second round and an additional $1.3 million for defeating Cameroon in the round of 16.
The financial incentives continue to escalate, with the defeat of Angola potentially earning the Super Eagles a total of $2.5 million. The journey to the final promises even more lucrative rewards, with a guaranteed $4 million for reaching that stage and the possibility of securing $7 million by becoming African champions.
As the stage is set for the Nigeria versus Angola quarterfinal game on Friday evening, football enthusiasts eagerly await not only the outcome on the field but also the financial implications that accompany success in the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations.
