2023 AFCON final match preview
All eyes will be on Africa today as the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament takes place in Abidjan with tournament hosts Cote d’Ivoire facing Nigeria for the title.
MATCH DETAILS
Preview: Nigeria vs. Cote d’Ivoire – The Final Showdown
Date: February 11, 2024
Kickoff: 9:00 PM
Venue: Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan,
The stage is set for a riveting rematch between Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations. This encounter, scheduled to take place at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan, promises to be a battle of titans, with both teams vying for continental glory.
Match Preview
Sunday’s final is a highly anticipated clash between two footballing giants in Africa.
Nigeria’s journey to the final has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by unexpected twists and turns.
Despite initial setbacks and doubts surrounding their performance, the Super Eagles have demonstrated resilience and determination, culminating in a remarkable resurgence.
Led by coach José Peseiro, Nigeria’s path to the final has been characterized by defensive solidity and tactical adaptability, with standout performances from goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Ademola Lookman, with reigning CAF player of the year, Victor Osimhen serving as the teams power-board.
On the other hand, Cote d’Ivoire’s campaign has been nothing short of sensational.
Under the guidance of interim coach Emerse Faé, the Elephants have defied the odds and overcome formidable opponents to reach the final.
Despite facing adversity early in the tournament, Cote d’Ivoire’s tenacity and spirit have propelled them to the brink of glory.
With players like Sebastien Haller and Simon Adingra in top form, the Elephants pose a formidable threat to Nigeria’s aspirations.
Team News
Both teams enter the final without key players nursing injuries.
Cote d’Ivoire boasts a relatively fresh squad, with fewer concerns regarding player fatigue.
The return of Serge Aurier from suspension adds depth to their defensive line, while the attacking trio of Sebastien Haller, Simon Adingra, and Nicolas Pepe pose a formidable threat to Nigeria’s defense.
Predicted Lineups
Nigeria: Nwabali; Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey; Osayi-Samuel, Onyeka, Iwobi, Aina; Simon, Lookman; Osimhen
Cote d’Ivoire: Fofana; Aurier, Boly, Ndicka, Konan; Kessie, Seri, Fofana; Pepe, Haller, Adingra
WE SAY
A fina that will be very hard to predict, but on paper the Super Eagles are poised for a fourth AFCON title. WE SAY 2-1 in favour of Nigeria.
