)
Jose Peseiro’s side knows that getting a win against the hosts is very important to calm the nerves around the last group game against Guinea-Bissau.
As the Super Eagles of Nigeria gear up to face Ivory Coast in their second group game at the AFCON 2023, there are key things they need to do to secure victory in this high-stakes game.
Nigeria settled for a 1-1 draw in their AFCON opener against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday. With second round qualification at stake, Jose Peseiro’s side knows that getting a win against the hosts is very important to calm the nerves around the last group game against Guinea-Bissau.
)
17:48 - 16.01.2024
‘Injured’ Sadiq Umar defies NFF doctors, set for Real Sociedad’s Copa del Rey clash
Despite being ruled out of the 2023 AFCON through injury, Nigerian striker Sadiq Umar has defied modern medicine as he is now set to play for Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday
Here are five key factors that the Super Eagles must pay attention to if they want to secure a positive result against Ivory Coast.
1. Emphasizing Teamwork and Discipline
Teamwork and discipline are crucial for the Super Eagles to succeed. A united front, where every player is in sync and focused on the common goal, is vital for overcoming the formidable Ivory Coast team. The hosts will throw everything at them as this is not just a battle for three points but one to make a statement. The Super Eagles must put up a brilliant team performance if they want to overcome the occasion.
)
2. Enhancing Midfield Creativity
The Super Eagles have been noted to carry a significant number of strikers, leading to concerns about an imbalance in the team. To counter this, there's a need for more creative midfielders who can effectively pass the ball forward and create opportunities. This approach will ensure a more balanced and dynamic attack against Ivory Coast.
)
16:58 - 16.01.2024
AFCON 2023: Nigeria’s William Troost-Ekong makes history during Super Eagles opener
Super Eagles vice captain William Troost-Ekong etched his name in football history during Nigeria's opening AFCON 2023 match against Equatorial Guinea
Although Nigeria created enough chances to get three points against Equatorial Guinea, the feeling is that they could have scored the important second goal if there was an effective attacking midfielder on the pitch. Alex Iowbi created two brilliant chances for Victor Osimhen and Zaidu Sanusi, but he drifted in and out of the game, which meant creativity was lacking at some point.
3. Brilliant defensive performance
A solid defense is essential for any team aspiring to win big tournaments. The Super Eagles have been criticized for conceding goals too frequently. To improve their chances, they must focus on building a robust and reliable defensive line to prevent goals against them.
)
16:49 - 16.01.2024
AFCON 2023: Five reasons Jose Mourinho should replace Super Eagle coach Peseiro
Mourinho, with his illustrious career and strategic brilliance, could offer a fresh perspective and new dynamics to Super Eagles.
Ivory Coast are one of the teams to have scored more than once in a game in this tournament. They created several chances in their win over Guinea-Bissau and will look to do so again against Nigeria. The William Troost-Ekong-led defense must be on their game throughout the duration of the match.
4. Utilizing willpower and determination
The mental aspects of the game, like willpower and determination, are often as crucial as physical skills. The Super Eagles need to show strong mental resilience and an unwavering commitment to winning each match, especially against a strong opponent like Ivory Coast.
)
16:21 - 16.01.2024
AFCON 2023: Three reasons Ghanian fans attacked their team’s coach Chris Hughton
The nature of the defeat was painful, as was the calibre of the team Ghana lost to in terms of pedigree.
5. Effective squad utilization
Finally, the Super Eagles need to make effective use of their squad. This includes deploying players in their strongest positions, making strategic substitutions, and ensuring that all team members contribute to the game plan.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)