Ivory Coast is on the cusp of securing an extraordinary third Africa Cup of Nations title, but their journey must navigate through the formidable Nigerian Super Eagles in the upcoming final on Sunday.

Confident in their pursuit of a fourth continental crown, the Super Eagles, under Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, have transformed into a hardworking and defensively stable unit. African Player of the Year Victor Osimhen is set to lead the attack, having previously tormented Ivorian defenders in the group stage where Nigeria secured a 1-0 victory with a second-half penalty from captain William Troost-Ekong.

With the resilience displayed by Nigeria, particularly in the semi-final shootout against South Africa, where goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made two penalty saves, the team is eager to capitalize on their defensive stability and secure the coveted title.

Osimhen, despite only scoring one goal in the tournament, has been a driving force for the team. His efforts, including three disallowed goals, have inspired his teammates with tireless performances.

On the other hand, Ivory Coast’s journey to the final has been a roller-coaster ride, marked by the firing of coach Jean-Louis Gasset after a shocking 4-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea. The team’s emotional journey continued with dramatic comebacks against Senegal and Mali, leading to a miraculous semifinal win over Congo.

Sebastien Haller’s return from injury adds firepower to Ivory Coast’s attack, raising hopes for a triumph in the final. The Ivorian fans, expected to dominate the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, are optimistic that their support will make a significant difference in the title-deciding clash.