2023 AFCON final: Four Super Eagles players to watch

Caretaker February 10, 2024

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Nigerian Players Shine as Super Eagles Secure Final Berth in AFCON In a dramatic semifinal clash at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, Nigeria's Super Eagles sealed their spot in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a tense penalty shootout victory over South Africa. The match, which ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, saw both teams exhibit impressive performances in a thrilling end-to-end encounter. Here's a breakdown of the Nigerian players' performances as assessed by Soccernet.ng: Christian Nwabali (8.5/10): The Chippa United goalkeeper showcased remarkable skill, making four crucial saves during regular play and two more during the penalty shootout, solidifying Nigeria's defense. Bright Osayi-Samuel (7/10): The Fernabache full-back delivered a solid performance, completing 91% of his passes and contributing defensively before being substituted for Kenneth Omeruo. William Troost Ekong (7.6/10): As team captain, the PAOK central defender displayed leadership, scoring a vital penalty and demonstrating expertise in defense and penalty-taking. Semi Ajayi (6.8/10): The West Bromwich Albion defender proved formidable in aerial battles and provided valuable support in attack when needed. Calvin Bassey (6.9/10): The Fulham defender exhibited strength and resilience, winning all of his duels and ensuring defensive stability. Ola Aina (6.8/10): Despite being deployed on the left side due to Zaidu's injury, the Nottingham Forest full-back delivered decent crosses while battling on his weaker side. Frank Onyeka (7/10): The Brentford midfielder contributed tirelessly in midfield, disrupting South Africa's play with well-timed tackles and interceptions. Alex Iwobi (6.5/10): The former Arsenal player struggled with the intensity of the South African midfield before being substituted in the second half. Ademola Lookman (6.2/10): The Atalanta forward missed a golden opportunity but remained a threat, creating chances and attracting attention from the opposition. Moses Simon (5/10): The Nantes winger faced difficulties beating his marker and was dispossessed frequently before being replaced by Samuel Chukwueze. Victor Osimhen (7/10): Osimhen's skill and tenacity earned Nigeria a crucial penalty and tested the South African defense throughout the match. Substitutes: Yussuf Alhassan (5.5/10): The Antwerp midfielder struggled defensively and conceded a crucial foul that led to South Africa's equalizer. Samuel Chukwueze (6/10): Chukwueze injected energy into Nigeria's attack but faced challenges with decision-making. Joe-Ayodele Aribo (6/10): The Southampton midfielder provided stability in midfield and avoided errors that could lead to goals. Kelechi Iheanacho (6.3/10): Iheanacho made valuable contributions offensively, scoring the winning penalty in the shootout. Terem Moffi (6/10): Moffi demonstrated composure under pressure, converting his penalty confidently during the shootout. Kenneth Omeruo: The Kasimpasa defender confidently dispatched his penalty, contributing to Nigeria's shootout victory.

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will clash with the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in a highly anticipated showdown for the 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Final.

As the 34th edition of Africa’s premier football tournament draws to a close, fans are gearing up for a battle between two football powerhouses vying to add another continental title to their illustrious history.

For the Super Eagles, claiming victory in this final would mark their fourth triumph in the tournament, a feat that they are eagerly striving for.

As anticipation builds, here are some of the key players who are expected to play pivotal roles for Nigeria in the final as tipped by CAFonline:

Stanley Nwabali: Dubbed the final wall of defense for the Super Eagles, Stanley Nwabali has been a standout performer throughout the tournament. With heroic saves and a commanding presence in goal, Nwabali has conceded only one goal from open play en route to the final. His exceptional performance, including saving two penalties in the semi-final against South Africa, has been instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to the final.
William Troost-Ekong: As the captain of the Super Eagles, Troost-Ekong has provided invaluable leadership and stability in defense. His experience and composure under pressure have bolstered Nigeria’s backline, complementing the team’s attacking prowess. Known for his ability to rise to the occasion, Troost-Ekong is poised to lead by example in the final.
Victor Osimhen: The reigning African footballer of the year, Victor Osimhen, has been a key asset for Nigeria despite his goal-scoring output not meeting expectations. Osimhen’s relentless pressure on opposing defenders, creative playmaking, and contribution to set pieces and penalties have been crucial for the Super Eagles. The final presents an opportunity for Osimhen to leave his mark on the tournament with a standout performance.
Ademola Lookman: Dynamic and dangerous, Ademola Lookman has been a thorn in the side of defenders throughout the tournament. With his blistering speed, technical skill, and eye for goal, Lookman has been a constant threat in the Nigerian attack. Currently boasting three goals in the tournament, Lookman will be eager to cap off his impressive showing with a stellar performance in the final.

As Nigeria prepares to battle Cote d’Ivoire for continental supremacy, the contributions of these key players could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the match and ultimately, the destination of the Africa Cup of Nations trophy.