'A great football nation' — Frank Kessie speaks ahead of AFCON final against Super Eagles

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 18:23 - 09 February 2024

Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessié has shared his thoughts ahead of the country's 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Nigeria.

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final is set, featuring host nation, Ivory Coast against the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Although Nigeria secured a 1-0 victory over the Ivorians in the group stage, the hosts have bounced back with three consecutive wins, setting the stage for an exciting clash at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan, on Sunday.

Sports Gist

Victor Boniface: Super Eagles star rewards fan with ₦500,000 for stunning portrait ahead of AFCON 2023 final

Kessie calls for calm ahead of Super Eagles clash

Kessié acknowledged the strength of Nigeria as a formidable opponent and advised his teammates to stay calm and focused in anticipation of the final.

"We all know Nigeria is a very great football nation and a very good team,” he told beIN SPORTS.

“We were in the same group and we lost 1-0 unfortunately but we still have a match on Sunday so as I emphasized earlier today we are going to remain calm.

“We are going to savour our victory and from tomorrow with the help of the technical staff we will work and we will think about the final.”