Nigeria player ratings vs Cote d’Ivoire: Bassey came to party, Aina shines, Troost-Ekong truly a leader

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria deservedly defeated Ivory Coast by 1-0 in their second group match of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations  on Thursday.

William Troost-Ekong dispatched a well taken penalty in second half after Victor Osimhen was fouled in the box.

It was a near perfect performance by the Jose Peseiro’s men, a complete positive shift from their last match against Equatorial Guinea.

Nigeriafootball.ng takes a look at how the Super Eagles’ players fared in the important victory.

Stanley Nwabali – 7/10

The Chippa United’s shot stopper couldn’t have much to as Nigeria kept Ivory Coast at bay fot most part. He was excellent with his services – legs and hands and did well to gather Seko Fofana’s shot in the first half.

However, he got himself into referee’s box for a needless yellow card due to time wasting.

Ola Aina – 8.5/10

Was fantastic all through the game. Aina kept Fofana away from operating from the left side of attack and Jeremy Boga was kept out of the game due to his solid defending.

He only need to be more decisive when supporting the attack.

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Saidu Zanusi 4/10

He didn’t have a good game from the start but grew into it and later did well.
He made an important block to deny Kouame in the first which could have caused danger for Nwabali.

Semi Ajayi – 7.5/10

Kept his cool and did well with his simple defending. The West Brom centre back made good use of his height to ward off several attacks from the Ivorians and did better in aerial duels than the last game.

William Troost-Ekong – 8/10

He was truly the leader needed in Super Eagles’ defense and in the team.
His coordination of the back like was supern and also capped it with his calmness to dispatch the penalty.
His aerial ability came in handy against the lanky Ivorian defenders.

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Calvin Bassey – 8.5/10

The best among the three centers backs. Bassey proved why he was handed the starting berth.
He was busy thwarting all the threats of the Ivorians and also did well when he was switched to left back position.
His Physicality was also useful and was able to make good use of the ball anytime he joined attack.

Frank Onyeka – 7.5/10

The Brentford midfielder had the best game in Nigeria’s color with his solid coverage of the back line.
He was able to win three duels on the ground and two interceptions.
He could have as well got a goal but guided his header wide from a corner kick.

Alex Iwobi – 5/10

He was not allowed to play to his full potential as he was played in a deeper role closer to the defense than the attackers.
However, he could not make good use of the few opportunities he had when provided space to attack.

Ademola Lookman – 6/10

Had a decent game and was active on the flank but couldn’t give much as he did in the last game.

Samuel Chukwueze – 5/10

The AC Milan winger was the poorest among the starters.
He actually started well with his macy runs but ran out of ideas and initiative with his passes and wayward runs on the flank.

Victor Osimhen – 7/10

Ever presence in the attack, was handful for the Ivorian defenders on many occasions.
One of his threats led to the penalty and the winning goal for Nigeria. Won a number of aerial contests but found wanting in some occasions.

Osimhen could have done better with the chance he had which could have buried the game for Nigeria.

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Substitutes:

Kenneth Omeruo:  6/10
Came in at the right time and made his presence felt with timely clearance and duels.

Bright Osayi-Samuel: 5/10
He provided needed coverage for Nigeria’s midfield and also joined attack when needed.
The Fenerbache full back however made a vital error when he was presented with a opportunity to provide assist for Nigeria to double the lead but went for individual glory.