The coach Samson Siasia-tutored Dream Team VI has emerged victorious in the CAF U-23 Cup of Nations with a 2-1 win over Algeria.
Going into the game, the team had reportedly been boosted with the payment of their outstanding allowances and bonuses by the Nigeria Football Federation, with unconfirmed reports also having it that the body had also promised the players a winning bonus of $4,000 each if they win the trophy.
Spurred on by the promise and with the backing of 180 million Nigerians, the U-23 boys romped into a 14th minute lead through in-form forward Oghenekaro Etebo, who converted a penalty to take his tally to four in the competition.
A misjudged handling of the ball caused Samuel Oduduwa to divert a cross from an Algerian player into his own net to bring the game level.
The charismatic Etebo proved he was too good to be kept quiet as he restored the lead for his fifth of the tournament.
Perhaps the biggest scare of the game for the Dream Team came in the 68th minute when Oduduwa clumsily brought down an Algerian attacking in the box.
However Zinedine Ferhat, who had been in inspiring form for the North Africans, had his effort saved by the Nigeria goaltender, Emmanuel Daniel.