Bronze, MVP consolation for Nigeria

Nigeria’s Ejike Uzoenyi has been adjudged  the Most Valuable Player (MVP)  of the 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) which ended in South Africa last Saturday.

The Enugu Rangers left winger scooped three Man of the Match awards at the tournament and also scored three goals. 

In addition to this, Nigeria won bronze by beating Zimbabwe 1-0 in the third place match and were also awarded the Fair Play Award

South Africa’s Bernard Parker finished as Goal King of the competition with four goals.

And after these surprise awards, Nigeria have said they will cherish their third-place finish at the 2014 CHAN after they crashed out to rivals Ghana in the semis. 

Most of the players, who featured in the CHAN for the first time,  told MTNFootball.com they were disappointed not to have won the 2014 CHAN, but will be consoled with finishing third. 

Ugonna Uzochukwu told MTNFootball.com: “This was my first competition as a national team player and I feel so happy winning the bronze medal. 

“Though I am disappointed we couldn't win the competition because that was my target, but God knows the best.” 

Left back Francis Benjamin said he was happy he did not leave South Africa empty handed. 

“It is a thing of joy for us to win the bronze, we give God all the glory. We aimed higher when we arrived here but we thank God for what he has done for us,” he reasoned.