Former Manchester United defender and Premier League legend, Rio Ferdinand, has thrown his weight behind the Super Eagles in the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, in Ivory Coast
Nigeria Super Eagles beat the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on penalties on Wednesday to reach their 8 AFCON finals.
Kelechi Iheanacho converted the winning penalty as Nigeria held their nerve for a 4-2 shootout win over South Africa to reach the AFCON final. William Troost-Ekong’s spot-kick in normal time had looked like sending the Super Eagles through without further stress, particularly when Victor Osimhen turned the ball home with five minutes remaining.
That goal though was chalked off, and South Africa awarded a penalty of their own for a foul in the build-up. Teboho Mokoena converted to force extra time, and penalties followed.
In a show of support for the three-time African champions, the England legend posted several Nigerian flags on X and shared a picture holding the Super Eagles jersey with “Ferdinand 5” boldly written on it.
The Nigerian Super Eagles will face host Ivory Coast who they earlier beat in the group stage in the finals on Sunday.
