OFFICAL: Nigeria and Argentina set to clash in blockbuster friendly after 2023 AFCON
Argentina have announced international frienly games vs Nigeria and Ivory Coast, scheduled to take place after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
This is according to official announcement on the X handle of the Argentina Football Federation on Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Nigeria and Ivory Coast will lock horns vs Argentina in March this year, as revealed by the Argentina Football Association.
The announcement comes hot on the heels of strong performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by both countries, with Nigeria defeating Cameroon and Ivory Coast triumphing over defending champions Senegal to secure spots in the quarter-finals.
Despite their ongoing quest for AFCON glory, both Nigeria and Ivory Coast are already eyeing international action beyond the continental competition.
Argentina’s national team, blessed with stars like Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, Angel Di Maria, and Enzo Fernandez, will host the friendlies during their tour of Asia.
Nigeria, with their own roster of standout players such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Kelechi Iheanacho, Alex Iwobi is expected to serve as a tough test for the World Champions as they prepare for the 2024 Copa America.
The 2024 Copa America tournament will take place in the United States of America, with Argentina aiming to defend their crown at the 16-team championship hence the decision to face top African sides, Nigeria and Ivory Coast.
The Super Eagles have faced Argentina in the World Cup group stages three times, with Argentina emerging victorious on each occasion.
Dates for both games have not been decided but it will take place in March, 2024.
