Ivory Coast v Nigeria: Everything you need to know about must-watch AFCON clash on Thursday 

A heavyweight AFCON clash kicks off Thursday as regional powers Nigeria and Ivory Coast square off in a high stakes Group A affair.

With both nations expecting deep tournament runs, their immediate ambitions could receive an early setback in what promises end-to-end action.

Both strong trophy contenders, Nigeria's young squad brims with attacking firepower capable of overwhelming any opponent on their day.

Meanwhile, Ivory Coast boasts emerging talents blended with seasoned national team players to form a competitive blend.

A match of this pedigree could very well go a long way in deciding Group A. With a conveyor belt of talent rising through the ranks, Nigeria and Ivory Coast both have eyes on the coveted AFCON silverware.

Adding another sparkling trophy to their collection looks the next logical step for both sides. 

As the continental rivals prepare to face off, allnigeriasoccer.com takes a look at everything you need to know ahead of a mouthwatering showdown:

Head to Head Records

The Elephants of Ivory Coast step into this encounter with the superior statistics, having met a total of 27 times with the most recent meeting coming in 2015 during an international friendly where the Super Eagles succumbed to a narrow 1-0 loss.

Nigeria have been victorious in 8 of those 27 meetings, loosing 9 times as well as sharing the spoils on 10 occasions.

Interestingly, the two powerhouses have met 6 times at the AFCON, with the host Nation coming out on top yet again mustering 4 wins against Nigeria's 2 victories.

Key Players

Super Eagles - Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, William Troost-Ekong, Alex Iwobi

Ivory Coast - Seko Mohammed Fofana, Jeremie Boga, Jean-Phillippe Krasso, Ibrahima Sangare.

Where to watch: Supersport on DSTV & GOTV, StarTimes Sports.

Date & Time: Thursday 18th January, 2024 at 18:00 WAT (6pm Nigerian Time).

Venue: Alassane Ouattara Stadium (Olympic Stadium of Ebimpé), Northern Abidjan.

Expectations: Given the continental pedigree of both teams, neither side can afford dropping points if they both hope to finish as group winners.

As such, both the Super Eagles and the Elephants will approach this initial clash with no less than victory in mind. Expect bold attacking endeavors and impact substitutions in the second half.

Ejim Kaycee

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