Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential candidate for the Labour Party, has urged the Super Eagles to intensify their efforts in the Africa Cup of Nations knockout clash against Cameroon. In a statement released on Saturday, Obi extended his congratulations to the Nigerian team for reaching the round of 16.
“As they go into the knock-out stage today, I encourage them to double their efforts while wishing them victory,” Obi remarked. He went on to describe the players as “ambassadors” who carry the hopes of the nation. “Our football players carry the banner of our youth as ambassadors of our nation,” Obi stated.
Despite the challenges currently faced by the team, Obi firmly believes that Nigeria is a nation of winners. He expressed his optimism in the potential of Nigeria and expressed his unwavering support for the Super Eagles.
The Super Eagles will face Cameroon today in their quest to advance to the AFCON quarter-finals. The match will be held at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, which is where Cameroon emerged victorious over Nigeria in the 1984 AFCON final.
Both Cameroon and Nigeria have a combined total of eight AFCON titles, with Cameroon holding five and Nigeria holding three. However, in recent encounters between Nigeria and Cameroon, the Super Eagles have been the dominant team.
Nigeria emerged victorious during the quarterfinals of the 2004 tournament held in Tunisia, as well as securing a win during the round-of-16 in the 2019 edition in Egypt.
Therefore, Obi expressed his support for the Nigerian team and their ability to overcome the odds with sheer determination.
Obi said that he wholeheartedly supports their aspirations and the promise of our great nation. “I support their hope and the promise of the great nation we deserve,” he added, urging the Eagles to bring pride to the country.
The winner of this West African showdown will progress to the quarterfinals to face the winner of Angola vs Namibia match, which is scheduled to take place at 6 pm (Nigerian time) at Stade de la Paix in Bouake on Saturday.
Both teams have their eyes set on adding more AFCON trophies to their collection. Nigeria is aiming for a fourth title, while Cameroon is seeking its sixth championship.
