Nigeria’s Super Falcons have earned a significant $200,000 prize money after qualifying for the quarterfinals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The team secured their spot in the last eight with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Botswana in Casablanca, Morocco. This win not only marked their qualification but also made them the first team to book a place in the quarterfinals, with one group match still to play.
The Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) newly enhanced prize structure guarantees each of the four quarterfinalists a minimum of $200,000. The Super Falcons’ current earnings stand at approximately N305 million, based on the prevailing exchange rate. Should they progress beyond the quarterfinals, they stand to earn an additional $150,000 as semifinalists who finish third. However, if they reach the final and end as runners-up, their prize money will increase significantly to $500,000.
The team’s sights are firmly set on the ultimate prize – a record-breaking $1 million for winning the tournament. With three more victories required to claim the jackpot, the Super Falcons are poised to make a strong statement in the competition. Their qualification for the quarterfinals has also drawn praise from the House of Representatives Committee on Sports and FIFA, who hailed their impressive performance.
The substantial prize money represents a significant boost for Nigerian women’s football, with the guaranteed $200,000 already marking a considerable improvement from previous tournaments. The funds will likely go towards developing women’s football infrastructure and player welfare programs, promoting sustainable growth for the sport in Nigeria.
As the tournament progresses, the financial incentives add another layer of competition, ensuring every match counts both on the pitch and the balance sheet. The Super Falcons’ next challenge will be against Algeria on Sunday, a match that will determine their fate in the group stage.
