The loss in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 final was a tough blow for Ahmed Musa and the Nigerian team to endure.
Despite taking an early lead, they were unable to maintain their advantage as Ivory Coast executed a remarkable comeback, securing the title with a late winning goal from Sebastien Haller at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium on February 11.
Visibly distraught after the match, Musa acknowledged both personal and collective disappointment. However, he also expressed pride in the Super Eagles’ journey to the final.
“That is football; someone wants to win, someone has to win, simple. We have to be proud of ourselves,” he stated.
The Sivasspor man deflected questions about what went wrong for Nigeria, suggesting those inquiries were better directed at the coach, Jose Peseiro.
“I don’t know, I’m not the coach. I think the coach should have the right answers to this.”
The Nigerian team, previously viewed as the favourites to clinch the AFCON 2023 title, experienced a bitter defeat in a match filled with drama and tension.
Haller’s late goal for Cote d’Ivoire shattered the Super Eagles’ hopes as the hosts staged a remarkable comeback to secure their third continental championship.
Despite captain William Troost-Ekong’s late first-half goal, Nigeria could not maintain their lead, ultimately succumbing to Franck Kessie’s equaliser and Haller’s decisive strike in the 81st minute.