History seemed to crackle in the air at Stade Olympique Alassane Quattara, where Nigeria’s Super Eagles soared to a crucial victory over hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the second round of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group A. 
Coach Jose Peseiro, facing immense pressure, fielded a determined squad to tackle the elephants, Footballrover reports.
A loss meant potential tournament elimination, with Equatorial Guinea leading the group after their 4-2 demolition of Guinea-Bissau.
Peseiro opted for a bold lineup, placing South African-based goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali between a defensive trio of Calvin Bassey, William Troost-Ekong, and Semi Ajayi.
The midfield engine, powered by Zaidu Sanusi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Ola Aina, supported a dynamic attacking trio: 2023 African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze.
The first half proved tense, with Côte d’Ivoire enjoying more possession (60% vs. Nigeria’s 40%) and firing six shots (three on target) compared to Nigeria’s seven (none on target).
However, the Super Eagles held firm, even earning five corner kicks to the hosts’ two.
The tension finally exploded in the 52nd minute when Osimhen was brought down in the box.
A VAR review confirmed the penalty, allowing vice-captain Troost-Ekong to coolly slot the ball past Yahia Fofana for the game’s only goal.
Peseiro then masterfully deployed four substitutions between the 72nd and 88th minutes, injecting fresh legs and tactical variety with Moses Simon replacing Chukwueze, Bright Osayi-Samuel taking over for Lookman, Kenneth Omeruo bolstering the defence, and lanky forward Paul Onuachu coming on for Osimhen.
This tactical reshuffle proved decisive, shutting down the Ivorian attack and securing a famous victory for the under-fire coach.
This triumph against the tournament hosts is a monumental relief for Peseiro and the Super Eagles, injecting life into their AFCON campaign and silencing many critics.
Be the first to comment on "AFCON 2023: Super Eagles Cage Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in Thrilling Encounter"