AFCON 2023: Lagos State Gov Babajide Sanwo Olu Charges Super Eagles Ahead of Ivory Coast Showdown

• The Africa Cup of Nations is set to take centre stage in Ivory Coast
• The Super Eagles of Nigeria are tipped as favourite by many
• A Nigerian Governor has charged Jose Peseiro’s side to win the AFCON

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is days away, and every participating nation are set to leave a mark on the continent’s biggest football showpiece.

Amongst the teams tipped as favourites to secure victory at the tournament are Nigeria’s Super Eagles. The three-time Cup of Nations champions are squaring up, boasting a squad adorned with remarkably talented and prolific attackers.

However, ahead of the team’s trip to the Ivory Coast, a governor of one of the states in Nigeria has charged Jose Peseiro’s side to clinch the AFCON crown.

Lagos Governor charges Super Eagles

At a pre-AFCON dinner hosted by Lagos State Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu in honour of the Super Eagles, encouraged the team to give their utmost effort and bring pride to the nation at the upcoming tournament in Ivory Coast.

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Addressing the team, the 58-year-old, as reported by Tobi Adepoju, emphasised their role as a unifying force for the country, acknowledging the excitement of over 200 million Nigerians. Sanwo-Olu urged the players to believe in themselves and persevere in Ivory Coast.

He stated, "We can’t just express our intentions verbally; you must deliver your best performance. Remember, it’s a team sport, not an individual one. Personally, I am committed to being in Abidjan for the games to support the team."

Sanwo-Olu reassured the team of the nation's best wishes, emphasising that winning the AFCON would be the best palliative. Having concluded their training camp in the United Arab Emirates, the Super Eagles are scheduled to depart for Ivory Coast on January 10. Nigeria will commence their AFCON campaign against Equatorial Guinea on January 14.

Osimhen tipped for AFCON Golden Ball

Sports Brief in a previous report highlighted that former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has tipped Victor Osimhen to clinch the AFCON Golden Ball award.

Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro sets target of winning 2023 AFCON for Nigeria

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The 25-year-old Napoli star is billed to play a critical role for the Super Eagles as Peseiro’s team bids to win Africa’s biggest football competition for the first time since 2013.

Osimhen found the back of the net 10 times during the qualification series for the showpiece.