Nigeria’s head coach, José Peseiro, remains confident that his team will not succumb to intimidation as they face Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. Despite Ivory Coast seeking revenge for their earlier defeat, Peseiro is determined to lead his team to their fourth AFCON title.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the final, Peseiro emphasized the positive impact of a full stadium and a fantastic atmosphere. He acknowledged the potential attempts to unsettle his team but stressed the importance of focusing on their task at hand – maintaining mental balance, commitment, and unity on the pitch.
Peseiro highlighted the need for his players to remain unfazed even when the home crowd rallies behind Ivory Coast, emphasizing the importance of matching the enthusiasm and motivation of the opposition. He emphasized that while there may be no clear favorite for the upcoming final, the Super Eagles are unequivocally determined to emerge victorious in the AFCON.
The stage is set for a thrilling final as both teams vie for glory in what promises to be a fiercely contested match on African soil.