AFCON: Omeruo Discloses Threatening Message Sent to Aina by Fan After Nigeria’s Loss to Ivory Coast

• Nigeria lost the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast
• Fans of the Super Eagles took to social media to hit out at a few players
• Kenneth Omeruo has disclosed a message Ola Aina received from a fan

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Nigeria's Super Eagles and host nation Ivory Coast proved to be a captivating spectacle.

The pulsating fixture, which had many on the edge of their seats for the duration of the 90, indeed exceeded the lofty heights, treating fans and stakeholders to a flurry of goal-mouth actions.

Nonetheless, goals from midfielder, Franck Kessie, and striker, Sebastien Haller, would eventually cancel out the first-half strike of William Troost-Ekong, and subsequently secure the title for the Ivorians.

However, Nigerian national team fans have struggled to come to terms with the defeat, expressing their frustration and disappointment on social media. Some have directed their ire at the players, posting critical comments on their social media accounts.

Nigeria vs South Africa: APC Chieftain Dies Watching Intense AFCON Semi Final

Football

Amidst these adverse reactions, veteran defender, Kenneth Omeruo, has revealed a message that teammate, Ola Aina, received from a fan.

Omeruo on Aina’ message

In a conversation with Arise News, the 30-year-old player addressed the online abuse that many of his teammates have faced.

"There are a lot of people who are angry for no reason, and they will come after you. We have been facing criticism even before this tournament," he said.

The Kasimpasa star went on to recount an incident where Aina received a death wish from a fan due to his performance in the AFCON final.

He also mentioned other disturbing messages that his teammates had received.

The 2013 AFCON winner ultimately called on fans of the national team to support the players rather than criticise them for the painful defeat to Ivory Coast.

Ivory Coast striker seeks revenge against Nigeria’s Super Eagles in AFCON final

Football

Nigerian midfielder scores goal of the season contender

Sports Brief in another report stated that Nigerian midfielder, Michael Folorunsho, scored a goal-of-the-season contender in his side's draw against Juventus.

The Hellas Verona star converted a sublime volley from the edge of the 18-yard box, leaving goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny, with no chance of saving it.

The 26-year-old also provided a sublime assist for teammate, Tijjani Noslin, on the night.