Football fans in Enugu State have expressed hope that the Super Eagles of Nigeria will defeat host Cote d’Ivoire in today’s final of the AFCON 2023.

A cross-section of the fans told journalists that having reached the final, the Super Eagles are the favourite to lift the trophy.

Some fans, however, advised the coach to pick the best of his players in today’s game to ensure victory in regulation time.

Clinton Umeh, a die-hard fan of the Super Eagles, said he was confident the Eagles would carry the day.

“I am confident Nigeria will win the match, but I would like the coach to return Ola Aina to his usual wing to get the best out of him.

“If Zaidu is fit, he should take over No. 3 while Aina returns to his usual No. 2, so he can run down the flanks as usual and reduce the pressure on the midfielders,” he said.

Another fan, Samuel Jonah, said he foresaw the Super Eagles winning the host 3-1 within regulation time without going through penalty kicks.

“I don’t foresee any serious challenge by Cote d’Ivoire unless there is complacency.

“They should play the match with all their heart and mind,” he said.

A former footballer, Ugochukwu Eze, said that with the crowd behind Cote d’Ivoire, they would make mistakes that would give Nigeria the edge.

“They will do everything possible to win, though an upset may not be ruled out, but if the Super Eagles keep their composure, they will emerge victorious,” Eze said. 

(NAN)