Nollywood actress Destiny Etiko has revealed that she lost ₦5 million after placing a bet on the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, describing the experience as enough to make her quit gambling for good.
The actress made the disclosure in a post shared on her Instagram page on Monday, shortly after Spain defeated Argentina to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.
Expressing her disappointment, Etiko wrote:
«“First time betting and I lost. Will never try it again. My 5M gone. In fact am done watching football. Anxiety almost killed me.”»
Although she did not disclose the exact wager she placed or provide details about how the bet was lost, her earlier Instagram Story posts suggested she had backed defending champions Argentina to beat Spain.
Before kickoff, she confidently declared, “Argentina all the way. Who can’t wait?”
As the match unfolded, however, her optimism faded. She shared another update expressing frustration with Argentina’s performance, writing, “This ball tough o. Argentina is pissing me off.”
Despite her disappointment, Etiko praised Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez for his efforts, posting, “The goal keeper is the savior oo.”
Spain eventually edged Argentina 1-0 after extra time on Sunday to claim the 2026 FIFA World Cup title, ending Argentina’s reign as world champions.
Etiko’s revelation has since sparked reactions on social media, with many fans responding to her vow to stay away from betting following the costly loss.
