Peseiro speaks on Nigeria’s failed AFCON adventure: “Only we know how much we suffered”

The Portuguese tactician guided the Super Eagles to the final of the continental championship for the first time in eleven years

Jose Peseiro has expressed his sadness at Nigeria’s failure to win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Porto manager beat all odds, including injuries to key players and financial constraints, to guide the Super Eagles to the final of the 34th edition of the continental championship.

Under his watch, the Super Eagles were unbeaten in six games, drawing against Equatorial Guinea and securing victories over Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon, Angola, and South Africa to reach the final.

However, Nigeria met their match with the Ivorians in the final, losing 2-1 despite taking the lead courtesy of a fine William Troost-Ekong header.

Despite the disappointment of the final defeat, Peseiro is proud of the Super Eagles’ achievement in Cote d’Ivoire.

The Portuguese tactician reveals that a lot of effort and hard work was invested in the adventure, and he sends his appreciation to the players and his crew for a job well done.

Peseiro wrote on Twitter: “We are sad for not having been able to win this title for Nigeria. But we are very proud of the tournament we played.

“Guys, only we know how much we suffered and fought to have reached this final. I can’t find the words to thank everyone for what we did and achieved. I am grateful.”

Peseiro is presently out of contract with the Super Eagles following the conclusion of the AFCON.

The Nigerian Football Federation has not confirmed whether the body intends to hand the former Sporting Lisbon manager a contract extension.