By As Shettima leads Nigerian delegation to AFCON finals, will Super Eagles carry the day?
Ghazali Ibrahim
To the delight of millions of fans across Africa and the rest of the world, Nigeria’s Super Eagles will slug it out with the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on Sunday night.
In what is dubbed the most important football game on the continent, the Nigerian side—whose journey to the final has been dramatic—will be aiming for a fourth AFCON title.
Dignitaries are expected to watch the final at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan and Nigerian isn’t exempted.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was present during the semifinal match against South Africa, will be leading the Nigerian delegation to the see the final. Many had expected President Bola Tinubu to be present based on earlier reports, but he instead sent his vice.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles faces an ultimate challenge against the Ivorians. Under the guidance of Portuguese gaffer Jose Pereiro supported by talented players like Lookman, Osimhen and Troost-Ekong, the Super Eagles showcased their talent and unrelenting spirit.
Now, as they prepare to face Côte d’Ivoire in a thrilling rematch, the expectation couldn’t be higher. Memories of Nigeria’s previous triumph over the host nation in the group stage is expected to serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for the Super Eagles, who are hoping to replicate their success on the grand stage of the final.
However, victory in the AFCON final will not come easy. Côte d’Ivoire boasts a talented squad and the advantage of playing on home turf. “Playing in front of our people gives us the motivation to perform, and I hope this good pressure will help the team,” Emerse Fae, the Ivorian coach told the BBC.
