Nigerian football icon Nwankwo Kanu has boldly predicted that the Super Eagles will emerge victorious in the 2023 CAF African Cup of Nations. Kanu, a two-time African Footballer of the Year, conveyed his optimism in a video shared on his X account on Wednesday.
In the video message, the former Arsenal star affirmed his belief that the Nigerian team, currently set for a semi-final clash against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on Wednesday, will progress to the final and ultimately claim the tournament title.
Addressing fans, Kanu, also known as ‘Papilo,’ stated, “I told you from the beginning, from the first game – believe, trust. The boys have done us proud. Semifinals, here we come. I told you we are going to be in the finals and we are going to win this tournament. Pray for them, support them, and wish them the best of luck.”
The football legend urged Coach Jose Peseiro’s team to secure the trophy, emphasizing that it belongs back in Nigeria since the last victory in 2019. He exclaimed, “This is our cup. It’s coming back home. Come on Super Eagles! Come on, You can do this! It is remaining only two games, history to be made.”
Notably, this marks the fourth encounter between Nigeria and South Africa in the tournament, with the Super Eagles winning the previous three matches. The semi-final against South Africa is scheduled for 6 p.m. Nigerian time.
Recapping the Super Eagles’ journey, they defeated Cameroon 2-0 in the round of 16 and secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Angola in the quarterfinals. South Africa’s Bafana Bafana won 2-0 against Morocco in the round of 16 and triumphed 2-1 in a penalty shootout against Cape Verde.
Former South African captain Neil Tovey, who led the 1996 title-winning team, acknowledged the tough challenge ahead, describing the match against Nigeria as “a final before the final.”
