Fae said: “We will be patient. We will not rush. We will focus on starting the match well and be patient in order to unsettle them.”
By Kehinde Okeowo
Cote d’Ivoire head coach, Emerse Fae has revealed how he intends to clip the wings of the Super Eagles of Nigeria when they confront his team in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) today.
The two teams will clash in the final of the competition at the Alassanne Quattara Stadium, Ebimpe in Abidjan, the capital of Cote d’Ivoire.
Nigeria made it to the AFCON final after beating South Africa on penalties in the semi-final, while the hosts edged past DR Congo, to earn their place.
The Elephants will look to avenge their group stage 1-0 defeat to the Super Eagles, when William Troost-Ekong netted the winning goal from the spot.
However, speaking with reporters ahead of the eagerly anticipated match, Fae said: “Like any high-level match, like any final, it will come down to the details.
“We will be patient. We will not rush. We will focus on starting the match well and be patient in order to unsettle them.”
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Meanwhile, Super Eagles and Arsenal FC legend, Nwankwo Kanu has sent a message wishing the Nigerian players victory against the Cote d’Ivoire national team in Sunday’s AFCON final.
In a now-viral tweet on his official X account ahead of the AFCON final, Kanu also urged Jose Peseiro’s men to beat the Elephants.
Speaking via his social media page, he tweeted: “KAN U believe it? Incredible atmosphere here at the AFCON a few hours to the finals.”
“Wishing Nigeria victory against the host country Ivory Coast.
“Let’s get this Super Eagles.” Kanu added.