The Nigeria Football Federation has explained why the Super Eagles were missing when bronze medals were handed out at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria secured third place on Saturday after edging Egypt 4–2 on penalties in the playoff match. But when the final between Morocco and Senegal was played on Sunday, Nigeria’s players were nowhere to be seen at the medal ceremony.

NFF president Ibrahim Gusau said the absence was down to pressure from European clubs, which demanded the immediate return of their players after the third place match.

According to Gusau, the situation was beyond the federation’s control and not unique to Nigeria. Egypt, who also featured in the playoff, faced the same issue.

“The players could not wait until Sunday to receive their medals,” Gusau said, in remarks shared by journalist Osasu Obayiuwana on X. “Their clubs were already insisting they return after Saturday’s game.”

He added that the medals are currently in his possession and would be handed to the players later.

“I have the medals with me. This also applies to Egypt. If the medal ceremony had been held on the day of the match, the players would have received them,” Gusau said.

Despite the low key ending, Nigeria’s win over Egypt added another milestone to the Super Eagles’ AFCON history. The bronze medal marked the country’s ninth third place finish at the tournament, the most by any nation.

The episode has reignited conversations around scheduling at major tournaments, especially as club commitments continue to clash with international competitions.