Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho’s support behind the Super Eagles of Nigeria, expressing his desire to see them emerge victorious in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Cote d’Ivoire has failed.
In an interview with FIVE UK, Mourinho shared his sentiments ahead of the highly anticipated final showdown between Nigeria and the hosts.
The 34th edition of AFCON is set to take place at the Olympic Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan, on Sunday at 8 pm, with Nigeria facing off against the hosts.
Speaking about the upcoming match, Mourinho revealed his support for the Eagles, citing his close relationship with Jose Peseiro, the team’s head coach.
Peseiro, Mourinho’s “best friend” in football, shares a longstanding connection with the renowned manager, having grown up together and attended the same university.
Reflecting on their shared history, Mourinho expressed his admiration for Peseiro and his desire to see him become the first Portuguese manager to clinch the AFCON title.
“My best friend in football is in the final. The Nigerian coach is my best friend — he grew up with me,” Mourinho shared in the interview.
“We studied together. We went to the university at the same time. We spent five years together every day. We left at the same time. He is probably my biggest friend in football. Jose, my big friend. It will be a huge opportunity for him to make history. Never has a Portuguese coach won the AFCON.”
