Osimhen, Ndidi, Onuachu, Awaziem Leave Super Eagles Camp After AFCON Bronze Victory

At least four Super Eagles stars have departed the national team camp following Nigeria’s victory over Egypt in the third-place playoff at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Paul Onuachu and Chidozie Awaziem have all returned to their respective club sides in Europe. Osimhen, Ndidi and Onuachu are currently based in Turkey, while Awaziem plies his trade in France. The players reportedly left Casablanca aboard a private jet shortly after the bronze medal triumph.

Their early departure means the quartet will not be present at the official AFCON awards ceremony scheduled to take place after the final, as medals were not presented immediately following Saturday’s match.

Nigeria secured third place after defeating Egypt 4-2 on penalties, following a goalless draw at the end of 90 minutes. The result marked the ninth time the Super Eagles have finished an AFCON campaign with a bronze medal, further underlining their consistency on the continental stage.

Opinion: Duty Done, Pride Intact

While some fans may have wished to see the players present at the medal ceremony, their early return to club duty is understandable in today’s demanding football calendar. These players gave everything for the national team, battled through a tough tournament, and ended Nigeria’s AFCON journey on a high.

More importantly, their absence does not diminish the achievement. The bronze medal is a collective reward for the entire squad, and the performances of Osimhen, Ndidi, Onuachu and Awaziem were part of the resilience that carried Nigeria through difficult moments. As they return to Europe, they do so with pride—having once again defended the nation’s colours with commitment and honour.