Another close but no cigar for Nigerians at the AFCON2023 final ……, how sad?
In the match between Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire, the Ivorians dominated possession with 63%, having more shots and shots on target.
The Nigerian side had few chances of scoring, managing only 5 shots compared to the Ivorians’ 18. Moreover, after Sébastien Haller’s second goal, Nigeria seemed unable to mount a counterattack, playing as if they had already accepted defeat.
This performance, juxtaposed with their victories over the Angolan Antelopes and the Cameroonian Indomitable Lions, left fans shocked at the absence of their usual strength, tenacity, and tactical prowess.
The Ivorians were high spirited marking all sides from the tight defense to their midfield, and the energetic flow of their strikers. They deserved the win after being the first host country to win the tournament since 2006.
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Ivory Coast’s victory with Kessie and Haller scoring pivotal goals, brought their total Cup of Nations victories to three, on par with Nigeria, though Egypt, Cameroon, and Ghana hold more titles historically.
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The absence of midfielders like Boniface and Ndidi likely affected Nigeria’s performance. Despite acknowledging the Ivorians’ superiority, the Super Eagles coach, Peseiro, expressed pride in his team’s efforts.
With the Super Eagles’ performance today, it’s evident that there’s plenty of work to be done to enhance the midfield and better prepare the players for the next AFCON match in Morocco 2025. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of addressing areas of improvement to ensure a stronger showing in future tournaments.
Additionally, the Super Eagles didn’t put in their best performance against the Ivorians, making the second time in the tournament. Right from the first whistle, the Ivorians displayed a higher intensity, dominating the game as if it were a battle of alien worlds.
However, Nigeria has won three out of seven previous meetings in the AFCON finals, indicating a closely contested matchup.
Notwithstanding, Troost-Ekong earned the Player of the Tournament award for his vital contributions, including scoring crucial goals and aiding his team in securing four shutouts.
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Congratulations to Nigerian SuperEagles for wining the second place of the 34th AFCON tournament. A shout out to the goal keeper for bringing his dexterity and commitment which brought the Nigerians football team this far.
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Dear Nigerians, should we hope for a sleekly managed team by the coach or better midfield positioning come AFCON 2025? Kindly share your thoughts reflecting today’s final defeat.
3 Comments
Nice analysis. Nigeria should not rely so much on playing defensive game. Our strength right fro time has always been midfield.
And few months later, Ademola LOOKMAN has brought the zeal that has orchestrated his hat trick performance in the EUFA League.
Exactly!
His consistency has paved a way.