AFCON 2023: Moses Simon optimistic of Nigeria advancing despite poor start

By Saheed Afolabi

Nigeria international, Moses Simon is hopeful of the national team reaching the Round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) despite their poor start to the competition.

The Super Eagles didn’t live up to expectations in the 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea as they hope to redeem their image against Ivory Coast in their second Group A game of the tournament on Thursday.

The Nantes star expressed displeasure over the poor performance from Nigeria and the chances wasted in a game that could have been won, while assuring his side to come good against the Elephants.

“Yes actually, we are disappointed, we have a lot chances but we didn’t utilize it, of course we are disappointed,” Simon told Nigeriafootball.ng exclusively.

“We just need to think ahead of the next game. We just need to work so hard, any opportunity we get, we use it and get it done.

“When you have this type of opportunity and you didn’t win, not only the host country, the next game, you have to wake up. Yes, I’m optimistic of the Super Eagles reaching the knockout stage.”

The Super Eagles opening game result leaves them hanging on a point as they approach the encounter against Ivory Coast.