Christians in Côte d’Ivoire are currently engaged in a two-day fasting and prayer initiative for Les Elephants, leading up to their highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final clash against Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan this Sunday.

The call for this spiritual endeavor was issued by Pastor N’Guessan Brou Grégoire, the founding president of the Christ Mission for Victory. The fasting and prayer procession commenced on Friday and will conclude today, Saturday.

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This isn’t the first time the Christ Mission for Victory has rallied in prayer and fasting for the Ivorian team. They previously undertook similar sessions before the team’s round of 16, quarterfinal, and semifinal matches – all of which the Ivorian team emerged victorious from.

This communal act of faith reflects the deep-rooted connection between religion and football in Côte d’Ivoire, where football matches are often seen as more than just sporting events but as moments of national unity and pride.

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This is also not uncommon in Nigeria as pastors have been seen calling on their congregation to pray for the Super Eagles ahead of crucial games, one of which is Pastor Jimmy Odukoja of the Fountain of Life Church in Lagos who since the start of the 2023 AFCON has constantly prayed for the Eagles.

Nigeria who defeated the Ivorians 1-0 in their first meeting at the 2023 AFCON in their second Group A game would be hoping to do a winning double over their West African neighbors.