Former Oyo State House of Assembly member, Seyi Adisa, currently in the Ivory Coast to support the Super Eagles, expresses optimism about Nigeria's chances of clinching the African Cup of Nations trophy for the fourth time in the upcoming final on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Adisa acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by the Ivorian team, emphasizing their improved coordination and confidence since the preliminary rounds.
Having witnessed the intensity of the match between Nigeria and South Africa, Adisa underscores the importance of the final in bringing joy to Nigerians.
While acknowledging the home advantage and fervent support from Ivorian fans, Adisa remains confident in Nigeria's abilities.
He highlights the team's solid defense, goalkeeping prowess, and the potential of forward Victor Osimhen to deliver on the big stage.
“As we all know, Super Eagles are meeting a totally different side, the same team but a totally different side, their confidence has grown and they have beaten Senegal and gone through tough matches and they have come through, so it’s a much more confident side.
“They also have home advantage, what we call the 12th man, and we are going to really feel their presence in the stadium on Sunday.
“But again, I come from the school of thought that if you want to be champion, you have to beat champions and I sincerely know that we have everything it takes, we have a solid defence, conceding few goals, we have a good goalkeeper but finishing has been our biggest challenge but I believe against all odd, our forward, Victor Osimhen will come through on that day.” he told Soccernet.ng.
Despite recognizing the tough nature of the upcoming encounter, Adisa believes Nigeria has the necessary qualities to emerge victorious.
Drawing on the nation's resilient spirit and past successes against host nations, he expresses hope that the Super Eagles will display determination and grit in pursuit of AFCON glory.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will tackle Côte d'Ivoire tomorrow for the final game of the tournament, and will be hoping to lift their fourth AFCON trophy.
