AFCON 2023: Ivory Coast vs Nigeria match preview, predictions, possible lineups, time and where to watch

AFCON 2023 Ivory Coast vs Nigeria preview | Imago

FOOTBALL AFCON 2023: Ivory Coast vs Nigeria match preview, predictions, possible lineups, time and where to watch

AFCON 2023: Ivory Coast vs Nigeria match preview, predictions, possible lineups, time and where to watch

Ayoola Kelechi • 20:00 - 16.01.2024

The Super Eagles of Nigeria face their toughest test yet at the 2023 AFCON as they take on the hosts, Ivory Coast

The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) match between Ivory Coast and Nigeria is scheduled for January 18, 2024, at 6 p.m. WAT. 

This highly anticipated game will take place at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Ivory Coast vs Nigeria team form

Ivory Coast, playing on their home turf, had a strong start in the tournament with a 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau, while Nigeria, facing injury challenges, was held to a 1-1 draw by Equatorial Guinea. These recent forms set the stage for what is expected to be a crucial match in the group stage.

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Ivory Coast has displayed impressive form with a record of D-W-W-W-W in their recent matches across all competitions. They started their AFCON campaign with a 2-0 victory against Guinea-Bissau.

Franck Kessié will captain Ivory Coast at AFCON 2023 | Credit: Instagram(@fif.ci)
Franck Kessié will captain Ivory Coast at AFCON 2023 | Credit: Instagram(@fif.ci)

Nigeria, conversely, has had a mixed run of results (W-D-D-L-D), including a 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their opening AFCON match.

Ivory Coast vs Nigeria key players to watch

Key players to watch include Seko Fofana from Ivory Coast and Victor Osimhen from Nigeria.

Seko Fofana of Ivory Coast | Credit: Instagram (@fif.ci)
Seko Fofana of Ivory Coast | Credit: Instagram (@fif.ci)

Fofana has been remarkable in midfield control and attacking contributions, while Osimhen, known for his athleticism and goal-scoring abilities, will be vital for Nigeria's attacking thrust.

Ivory Coast vs Nigeria head to head record

Ivory Coast has shown a strong performance in recent matches, being unbeaten in their last seven games across all competitions. Nigeria, conversely, has not won in their last five matches.

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Historically, the head-to-head record between these two teams is closely matched, with Ivory Coast having a slight edge.

Ivory Coast vs Nigeria possible lineups and injuries

Ivory Coast's Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Fofana; Konan, Ndicka, Diomande, Singo; Sangare, Kessie, Seko Fofana; Bamba, Boga, Krasso. Notable injuries include Adingra and Haller.

Nigeria's Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1): Nwabili; Sanusi, Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Aina; Onyeka; Lookman, Iwobi, Yusuf, Simon; Osimhen. Sadiq is out due to a thigh injury​

Victor Osimhen wasteful in front of goal || Imago
Victor Osimhen wasteful in front of goal || Imago

Ivory Coast and Nigeria both have strong players in their squads. Ivory Coast will be without Sebastien Haller due to an ankle injury, but they still have the likes of Seko Fofana, who is known for his dynamic midfield presence. 

Nigeria, meanwhile, will rely heavily on Victor Osimhen, a key striker who has shown his goal-scoring abilities in Serie A. Nigeria's lineup also includes Premier League players like Iwobi, Onyeka, Bassey, and Aina​​​​.

Ivory Coast vs Nigeria tactical analysis

The match is expected to be tightly contested, reflecting both teams' recent forms and historical rivalry. Ivory Coast has an impressive home record, having suffered just one defeat at home since the start of 2023.

After viewing recent World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, some supporters of the Super Eagles of Nigeria have been unhappy with Portuguese tactician Jose Peseiro.
Super Eagle head coach Jose Peseiro || Credit: Imago

Nigeria, having last won the tournament in 2013, will be looking to reassert their strength in the competition.

Ivory Coast vs Nigeria betting tips and predictions

The predictions and betting tips suggest a potential for both teams to score, with an emphasis on a strong attacking display from both sides​​​​.

Where and how to watch Ivory Coast vs Nigeria 

For those interested in watching the match, it will be broadcast live on local and satellite television in Nigeria.

The match is a must-watch for football fans, promising to be a thrilling encounter between two of Africa's football powerhouses​​.

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Tags:
Nigeria Ivory Coast Africa Cup of Nations AFCON 2023