AFCON FINAL: Obaseki hails Super Eagles despite 2-1 defeat by Ivory Coast

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hailed the Super Eagles of Nigeria, commending their resilience and teamwork despite conceding the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations title to the host nation, Ivory Coast.

Despite going ahead in the first half courtesy of a header by William Troost-Ekong, the Ivorians turned the game around in the second half to win 2-1.

Obaseki joined other football enthusiasts, fans and supporters to watch the first half of the game at the Ring Road viewing center, one of the venues set up by the state government across the State.

The governor was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Osaigbovo Iyoha; Deputy National Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Timothy Osadolor; Chairman of Oredo Local Government Area, Dr. Tom Obaseki and other top government functionaries to Garrick Memorial School at Ekenwan Road, another viewing center set up in the State, to watch the second half of the match.

He said, “It was a very interesting match and you can tell that our boys played their hearts out but the Ivorians have the benefit of the home crowd. Our boys who are just 11 on the field of play, played against 60,000 people. They put in their best but it was not their day.

“We should be hopeful. They did their best and got to the finals. We could have won the cup; that means we have what it takes to be African Champions and next time around, we could win.”

Obaseki added, “I am happy with the quality of the game and the quality of the team we have. I am confident that we have a good team but it’s just that it didn't happen for them today.”

Governor Obaseki also commended Nigerians and Edo residents for coming out massively to support the Super Eagles, noting “I pray that this spirit of commitment by the players and other Nigerians will continue so that we can celebrate more wins.”