Former Nigeria coach Johannes “Bonfrère” Jo has expressed disappointment over what he describes as a lack of recognition from the Nigerian government nearly three decades after guiding the country’s football team to Olympic gold.
The 80-year-old Dutch manager led the Dream Team to a historic victory at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, where Nigeria became the first African nation to win the men’s football event. The team defeated Brazil 4-3 after extra time in the semi-finals before overcoming Argentina 3-2 in the final.
Despite the achievement, Bonfrère said he never received the rewards that were later given to many members of the victorious squad.
“They were claiming that everyone has received their rewards, but I have not received anything; they have never given me the reward for winning the gold medal,” he said.
Bonfrère also disclosed that the gold medal presented to him after the tournament was stolen while it was being kept by a Nigerian team official.
According to him, losing the medal and missing out on the government’s reward remain painful memories from one of the greatest accomplishments of his coaching career.
“Even my gold medal was stolen from me, and I still didn’t get a reward from the government, which all the players have received, including players who were not on the list,” he added.
