The Elephants of Ivory Coast came from behind to complete a dramatic recovery and redemption on home soil at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations as they claimed a third continental title by beating Nigeria 2-1on Sunday at the Stade Alassane Quattara.
The Super Eagles had taken a first-half lead, against the run of play, through their captain William Troost-Ekong, but goals from Franck Kessie and Sebastian Haller condemned Nigeria to their fifth defeat in eight appearances in AFCON finals.
For striker Haller, and for even the most ardent Nigeria fan, it was a fitting finale to a journey back to full health having been diagnosed with testicular cancer in July 2022.
Ivory Coast were on the brink of elimination in the group stage, for which Haller was injured, and lost their coach Jean-Louis Gasset as a result.
Their victory on Sunday, secured against a Nigerian side that were heavy favourites, also marked the first win by any hosts since Egypt claimed the crown in 2006.
However, Domesticsportsgh.com Chief reporter Samuel Evans Enyan who covered the event since day believes the Ivorians deserve the feat for their hardwork, team work and great organization of the Afcon 2023.
“It’s their power of the group and the mindset that put them through,”
“The people of Ivory Coast deserve this victory because there was unity even when many thought they are dead.”
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