The highly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Cote d’Ivoire is all set to take place on Sunday amidst stringent security arrangements.
The grand finale will feature a showdown between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the host team, the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire, at the 60,000-seater Olympique Alassane Ouattara Stadium in D’Ebimpe.
Supporters from both nations have been streaming into the stadium, undergoing rigorous security screenings before gaining access.
According to a correspondent from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reporting on-site, security in and around the stadium has been significantly reinforced with the assistance of the military. Mobile prison vehicles have been strategically positioned to ensure seamless security operations. Additionally, the stadium has been given a fresh makeover in preparation for the final, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Nigerian time.
NAN’s report also outlines the journey of the Super Eagles to the final. The team commenced with a 1-1 draw in their initial game against Equatorial Guinea, followed by a 1-0 victory against the hosts, Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire, and a 1-0 win over Guinea Bissau in the final group B match. The three-time African champions then secured a 2-0 win against the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the round of 16, and a 1-0 victory over the Palancas Negras of Angola in the quarterfinals. Nigeria eventually advanced to the final after a hard-fought 4-2 win in the penalty shootout against South Africa in the semi-final, following a 1-1 draw during regulation time.
Notably, Nigeria clinched the AFCON title in 1980, 1994, and 2013, adding to the stakes and excitement surrounding the upcoming final.