AC Milan’s winger, Samuel Chukwueze, is gearing up for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals after Nigeria secured a spot with a penalty shootout victory over South Africa on Wednesday. The Super Eagles are set to face tournament hosts Ivory Coast in the final on Sunday, following their earlier group stage encounter, which Nigeria won 1-0.

Chukwueze, participating in his third AFCON tournament, has a history of scoring in the competition and is eager to make his mark again. Having played in 4 out of 6 games for the Super Eagles, accumulating 230 minutes on the field, Chukwueze is a key player in Nigeria’s quest for the AFCON crown.

The Serie A is well-represented in the final, with notable players like Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), and Chukwueze donning the Nigerian colors. On the Ivory Coast side, Christian Kouame (Fiorentina) and Evan Ndicka (AS Roma) add to the Serie A presence.

For AC Milan supporters, the final may bring conflicting emotions, as former midfielder Franck Kessie (Al Ahli), a pivotal figure for Ivory Coast, delivered an outstanding performance in the quarter-finals, earning the Man of the Match award. Other familiar faces from Serie A include Wilfried Singo (Torino-Monaco) and Jeremie Boga (Sassuolo-Nice).

With Nigeria aiming for their fourth AFCON title, having last won in 2013, and Ivory Coast seeking their third title, last crowned in 2015, the final promises an exciting clash. Notably, no host nation has lifted the AFCON trophy since Egypt in 2006.