Former Chelsea and AS Roma manager Jose Mourinho has voiced his prediction for the outcome of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, favouring the Super Eagles of Nigeria to clinch victory.
Set to face off against the host nation Ivory Coast in today's final, Sunday, February 11, 2024, at the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpé, the Super Eagles secured their spot in the final with a tense 4-2 penalty shootout triumph over South Africa's Bafana Bafana.
On the opposing side, the Elephants secured their place in the final by defeating Cape Verde 1-0 in the semi-finals, with the winning goal courtesy of Borussia Dortmund forward Sebastian Haller.
In an interview with football.com, Mourinho extended his well wishes to both teams but indicated his inclination towards Nigeria's success, citing his close relationship with the Nigerian coach, Jose Peseiro.
Mourinho shared, "My best friend in football is in the final. The Nigerian coach is my best friend. He grew up with me and we studied together. We spent five years together every day. We left at the same time."
Mourinho emphasized the significance of the moment for Peseiro, expressing that it presents a monumental opportunity for him to etch his name in history, especially as no Portuguese coach has previously claimed victory in the African Cup.
The highly anticipated match is scheduled to kick off at 20:00 GMT.