The streets of Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire’s bustling commercial capital, were alive with excitement on Wednesday as fans eagerly discussed the impending clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the host nation, Cote d’Ivoire, scheduled for Thursday.

This encounter marks the second match for both teams in Group A of the ongoing AFCON 2023. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported scenes of Ivorian fans draped in their orange, white, and green flags, dancing in jubilation. The city resonated with music from various joints, and big screens adorned every corner, enhancing the fervor.

Yao Kouassi, the proprietor of a local bar, expressed confidence in a victory for Cote d’Ivoire, stating, “I am confident we will beat Nigeria tomorrow.” Aminata Kouadio, who owns a restaurant near the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, echoed this sentiment, projecting optimism about the elephants triumphing over the Super Eagles on Thursday.

Even Nigerian residents in the city chimed in, expressing support for the Super Eagles. Emmanuel Okafor, a businessman residing in Abidjan, shared, “We’ll be going to the stadium to support them all the way.” The match is scheduled at 5 p.m. (local time) at the 60,000-capacity Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan.