We’ll support Nigeria in AFCON final, says Premier League manager

Fulham manager Marco Silva has said the club will give their full support to Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Sunday’s AFCON final against hosts Côte d’Ivoire.

The Eagles reached their first AFCON final since 2013 after defeating South Africa 4-2 on penalties.

The game was decided vi penalty after 120 minutes of football ended 1-1.

The duo of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey are part of the Eagles squad and have been instrumental to the run up to the final.

Both players are expected to be in action for Jose Peseiro’s men in the final against the Ivorians.

Commenting on the absence of Iwobi and Bassey, Silva admitted that it has not been easy for Fulham.

“Of course we have been watching. It’s mixed feelings for us,” the Portuguese said on Friday, during his press conference ahead of Saturdays league game with Bournemouth.

“It’s been a long time without two key players for us.

“Right now, we are supporting them in the final.”

Côte d’Ivoire would be hoping to avenge their group stage defeat against the Eagles who triumphed 1-0.

After a disastrous group stage campaign, Ivory Coast managed to get to the final after wins against Senegal, Mali and DR Congo in the knockout phase.