Super Eagles of Nigeria predicted starting XI for 2023 AFCON final match

Caretaker February 11, 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.

Nigeria will face-off against 2023 AFCON hosts Cote d’Ivoire at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, in the final match today.

Their previous encounter in the group stage resulted in a narrow win for Nigeria, courtesy of William Troost-Ekong’s well-converted penalty.

However, with Cote d’Ivoire eager for redemption and aiming for their third AFCON trophy, the Super Eagles are preparing for a tough challenge.

Here is SPORTSRATION’S Super Eagles Predicted Starting XI forthe match:

With no reports of injuries, we expect Super Eagles head coach to name the same starting xi from the AFCON semifinal win over Soth Africa.

Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali, who has been impressive so far for the Super Eagles, saving two penalties in their semi-final clash against South Africa, is expected to retain his position in goal for the Super Eagles.

Defenders: The absence of Zaidu Sanusi due to injury in the last match left a noticeable gap, with Bright Osayi-Samuel filling in. However, Peseiro is likely to reinstate Sanusi and maintain a three-man defense with William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey, while utilizing Ola Aina and Sanusi as wing-backs.

Midfielders: The midfield formation will likely remain unchanged, with Frank Onyeka alongside Alex Iwobi in the middle of the park.

Forwards: Victor Osimhen, who was spotted training with the group, is expected to lead the line for the upcoming clash. Simon Moses and Ademola Lookman will likely maintain their frontline positions.

Formation (3-4-3): Nwabali; Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey; Aina, Iwobi, Onyeka, Sanusi; Lookman, Osimhen, Moses