AFCON 2023: What we learned from Cote d’Ivoire vs Nigeria match

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

It is no longer news that the Nigeria secured their first triumph, stunning hosts, Cote d’Ivoire 1-0 in their second Group A encounter at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Abidjan on Thursday.

William Troost Ekong’s second-half 55th minute penalty strike separated both sides at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara, Ebimpe, Abidjan.

The Super Eagles put up a spirited performance during the game making it imperative for NigeriaFootball.ng to look at lessons from the encounter.

Formation twerk

Jose Peseiro switched formation from 4-1-4-1 or 4-4-2 to a 3-4-3 setup.

The changes might have been influenced by the unavailability of players due to injuries and the level of opposition.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali put up a good show in goal backed up by the defensive solidity of Calvin Bassey, Troost Ekong, and Semi Ajayi at the backline.

In the middle of the pack, Zaidu Sanusi partners Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Ola Aina. Sanusi was at fault with his decision-making and losing the ball to the opponents at times.

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Up front, Ademola Lookman and Chukwueze support Victor Osimhen from the flanks. Due to the intensity of the encounter, Osimhen sometimes had to come back to defend and take part in the build-up process.

The Napoli star missed some chances which should have made the scoreline more than 1-0 but still played his crucial role leading to the penalty awarded for the winning goal.

Super Eagles keep a clean sheet

A major lesson learned from the match was that the Super Eagles can keep clean sheets with the change of goalkeepers and the shape-up of the defence.

Nwabali after playing the straight AFCON games is now assured of the first-choice shirt ahead of Francis Uzoho.

The Chippa United goalie gave a good account of himself during the two games.

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As the three-time African kings  prepares to face Guinea Bissau in their last group game, we wish the three-time African champions the best of luck in their bid to win their fourth title.