)
The Super Eagles claimed an important win against the AFCON host country Ivory Coast to have a chance of qualification.
It took a second-half penalty from Troost Ekong which he slotted home after Osimhen was fouled in the box to secure a 1-0 victory for Nigeria.
The team's performance had a lot to do with the win as the team made sure that their defence was solid and their attack was dangerous.
We look at the performance of the team and rate each player according to how well they impressed.
Player Rating
Stanley Nwabili - 8
Stanley Nwabili was also one of the best players on the pitch against Ivory Coast despite doubts about his inclusion in the starting lineup.
The goalkeeper made many saves to keep the Super Eagles in the game and was solid and calm with the ball.
Ola Aina - 6
Ola Aina played a solid part both in attack and in defence with his ball carriage and skilful moves.
)
20:33 - 18.01.2024
AFCON 2023: 3 Tactical changes Peseiro made to outsmart Ivory Coast
The Super Eagles of Nigeria stunned AFCON hosts Ivory Coast, sealing an impressive 1-0 win to blow Group A wide open.
)
20:30 - 18.01.2024
Super Eagles 1-0 Ivory Coast: Nigerians say penalty hero Ekong deserved Man of the Match ahead of Osimhen
See what Nigerians are saying about the 'angry' penalty taken by Ekong as Super Eagles beat Ivory Coast.
The defender was very explosive down the right-hand side of the defence, making sure that a lot of attacks came from his wing.
Troost-Ekong - 8
Troost-Ekong was one of the best players on the pitch against Ivory Coast, ensuring the defence was solid enough to withstand the Ivorian attack.
The defender crowned his performance with a calm finish from the penalty spot after Osimhen was fouled in the box.
)
Semi Ajayi - 7
Semi Ajayi also had a solid game and has a good partnership with Ekong in the Super Eagles backline.
The defender was a rock for the Super Eagles, making sure that every area ball from the Ivory Coast team did not threaten the defence.
Calvin Bassey - 8
Calvin Bassey was brought in to replace the injured AlHassan for the second game of the Group A game against Ivory Coast
The defender produced an excellent performance, supporting the back four with his physicality and calmness on the ball.
)
Zaidu Sanusi - 6
Zaidu Sanusi had a solid game against Ivory Coast and complimented the backline of Ekong, Ajayi and Aina.
His attacking prowess and defensive solidity were what he brought into the team which helped them get the win.
Frank Onyeka - 7
Frank Onyeka was a rock shielding the four-man defence for the Super Eagles and making sure they came out with the win.
The midfielder made several interceptions and breaking passes leading to several attacks for the Super Eagles.
Alex Iwobi - 6
Alex Iwobi had an average performance in the game against Ivory Coast despite the Super Eagles claiming the win.
The midfielder had less impact in the game due to his limitations in the midfield, with the team having less control.
Ademola Lookman - 8
Ademola Lookman could easily be given the Man of the Match award with a solid performance against the Ivorians
The attacker was everywhere on the field, linking up play from the midfield to the attack as the Super Eagles secured a vital win.
Samuel Chukwueze - 7
Samuel Chukwueze also had a solid performance against Ivory Coast with his dangerous moves on the wing.
The attacker caused a lot of upset for the Ivorian's defence and his partnership with Osimhen in the attack was dangerous.
Victor Osimhen - 9
Victor Osimhen is always known for his effort in the team and he succeeded in impressing against Ivory Coast.
The forward gave the Super Eagles a lifeline after winning a penalty that gave the team a hard-fought victory.
)
Substitutes
Kenneth Omeruo - 5
Kenneth Omeruo came in as a substitute to make an impact, making sure he added more solidity to the defence.
Osayi Samuel - 5
Osayi Samuel also came in as a substitute to make sure the Super Eagles maintained their lead. He also gave a solid performance.
Moses Simon - 5
Moses Simon also came in to replace Samuel Chukwueze late on in the game and was good at retaining the ball for his team.
Paul Onuachu - 5
Paul Onuachu also came in to replace Osimhen in attack and did a good job with his hold on play.
Terem Moffi - Nil
Was an unused substitute
Francis Uzoho -Nil
Was an unused substitute
Ahmed Musa - Nil
Was an unused substitute
Joe Aribo - Nil
Was an unused substitute
Onyemaechi - Nil
Was an unused substitute
Iheanacho - Nil
Was an unused substitute
Awaziem - Nil
Was an unused substitute
Nwadike - Nil
Was an unused substitute
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)