2023 AFCON: Five things we noticed from Super Eagles 1-0 win against Elephants 

Nigeria clinched a significant 1-0 victory over hosts Ivory Coast, propelling them to the second position in Group A of the ongoing AFCON tournament.

Troost Ekong secured the lone goal of the game through a penalty, skillfully sending the goalkeeper, Fofana, the wrong way with a powerful shot to the center.

Here, allnigeriasoccer.com present five things we noticed from the impressive victory against the Elephants.

1. Peseiro demonstrates tactical acumen

In the absence of Alhassan Yusuf in midfield, Peseiro exhibited strategic flexibility by opting for a 3-4-3 formation to approach the game.

This tactical adjustment involved Nigeria defending with five players, maintaining a deep defensive line and granting the Ivorians possession of the ball.

The shift proved advantageous for the Super Eagles, providing ample space for Nigeria's attackers to exploit during transitions.

Moreover, the chosen formation solidified Nigeria's defensive capabilities, effectively countering the host's threats.

With the switch, Nigeria managed to secure a victory on Ivorian soil on Thursday at the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpé.

2. Impartial officiating

Mustapha Ghorbal, the Algerian referee, delivered a commendable officiating performance during the clash between Nigeria and Ivory Coast.

Displaying authority on the field, Mustapha consistently made accurate decisions when required.

The referee rightly awarded a penalty to Nigeria after a collision between Victor Osimhen and Ousmane Diomande in the second half. Additionally, Mustapha judiciously dismissed a penalty appeal from the Ivorians in the final minutes of the game.

3. Impressive display by Nwabili

Nwabili showcased a commendable performance for Nigeria in their triumph against the Elephants. Despite displacing Francis Uzoho as the Eagles' first-choice goalkeeper ahead of the tournament, Nwabili was not significantly tested during the match against Equatorial Guinea.

In his fourth cap for Nigeria against Ivory Coast, Nwabili played a crucial role in making strategic decisions, particularly in handling set pieces - a notable concern for Nigeria entering the tournament.

The collective performance of Nwabili and the team ensured Nigeria secured their first victory in four competitive games and maintained their first clean sheet since September 10, 2023, when they secured a 6-0 victory over Sao Tome and Principe.

4. Potential injury concern for  talismanic forward Osimhen

Amidst the celebratory atmosphere following the triumph against the host, Nigeria now faces an apprehension leading into upcoming matches in the tournament. Victor Osimhen, the striker, was substituted by Paul Onuachu in the 88th minute due to a minor injury concern.

On the bench, Osimhen was observed with an ice wrap on his lap as Nigeria secured the victory against the Elephants.

5. Ibrahim Sangaré, Skeo Fofana and Franck Kessie silenced in midfield

The absence of Wilfred Ndidi and the injury to Alhassan Yusuf, sustained in the match against Equatorial Guinea, heightened concerns for Nigeria in the midfield battle.

Despite these challenges, Nigeria effectively neutralized the influence of Ibrahim Sangaré, Frank Kessie and Fofana in the midfield, successfully containing their threat during the game.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com