The stage is set for an epic showdown as Nigeria’s Super Eagles take on Cote D’ivoire’s Elephants in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium tonight. This clash is not just a battle for the prestigious title but also a rematch of their intense encounter during the group stage.
The Journey So Far
Since Nigeria’s victory over Cote D’ivoire earlier in the tournament , both teams have undergone remarkable transformations. Cote D’ivoire, despite facing elimination in the group stage, has shown resilience and now rides a wave of momentum, backed by their passionate home support. On the other hand, Nigeria, once considered outsiders, has defied the odds to reach the final, showcasing a revamped approach and defensive solidity.
Key Players and Tactics
Much attention has been on Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali whose Penalty Heroics fired Super Eagles to AFCON final , Ademola Lookman who has been a star in the tournament, his brace against Indomitable Lions fired Super Eagles to Quarters where he repeated same feat, in Quarters, his solitary goal helped Super Eagles overcome defiant Angola & of cause the star man , reigning African player of the year Victor Osimhen who has been influential despite not scoring consistently.
Cote D’ivoire boasts a diverse scoring threat with all six of their goals in the tournament coming from different players.
The return of Serge Aurier and Oumar Diakite adds depth to the Elephants’ lineup, while Nigeria’s Terem Moffi and Kelechi Iheanacho provide additional options after their return from injuries.
Head-to-Head and Expectations
In their eighth meeting at the Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria holds a slight historical advantage with three wins compared to Cote D’ivoire’s two while two other encounters have ended in a draw. However, recent encounters have been closely contested, with Nigeria edging the group stage clash 1-0.
Final showdown
Nigeria eyes their fourth AFCON title, aiming to equal Ghana’s record, while Ivory Coast seeks to claim their third continental title and become the first host nation to win since Egypt in 2006. The significance of this final adds an extra layer of intensity, as both teams vie for glory and pride.
Possible Lineups
For Nigeria, a solid defensive setup complemented by the attacking prowess of Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen is expected, while Cote D’ivoire will rely on the creativity of Franck Kessié and the finishing ability of Sebastien Haller.
- Nigeria Possible Starting Lineup: Nwabali; Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey; Osayi-Samuel, Onyeka, Iwobi, Aina; Simon, Lookman; Osimhen
- Ivory Coast Possible Starting Lineup: Fofana; Aurier, Boly, Ndicka, Konan; Kessie, Seri, Fofana; Pepe, Haller, Adingra.
