SUPER Eagles of Nigeria captain Ahmed Musa and centre-back Kenneth Omeruo have declared their intention to become the first Nigerian players to ever win two Africa Cup of Nations trophies.
The two played key roles as the Super Eagles claimed the AFCON title in South Africa in 2013 and are the only ones from that squad left in the Nigeria team at this year’s tournament in Cote d’Ivoire.
The Super Eagles are in their first final since that 2013 triumph and both Musa and Omeruo are eager to add to their collection and make history.
The three-time African champions are up against the hosts in tomorrow night’s final at the Alassane Outtara Stadium in Abijdan.
“It is a feeling you can’t always properly describe. Winning the AFCON and touching the trophy is an unforgettable experience,” Musa, who scored in the 4-1 semi-final win over Mali 11 years ago, told the Nigeria Football Federation media department.
“Omeruo and myself experienced that when we won in South Africa. But I want another one and he also wants another one. The good feeling and experience must be double double.”
Omeruo, who unlike Musa has featured in AFCON 2023 and scored in the penalty shootout victory over South Africa in the semi-final, agreed with his captain about a second title.
“We want that special feeling again – the feeling of being a champion of Africa,” the Kasimpasa centre-back said.
“We have not gone this far to throw it away now. We have thrown everything into the six matches we have played here. We will give more than 100 percent against the Ivorians on Sunday.”
The Super Eagles defeated Cote d’Ivoire 1-0 when they both met in the group phase just over three weeks ago and are confident of a repeat performance.
