2023 AFCON final Nigeria 1 CIV 2: Five observations from Super Eagles disappointing loss to Elephants
Published: February 11, 2024![2023 AFCON final Nigeria 1 CIV 2: Five observations from Super Eagles disappointing loss to Elephants](../football_pics/42169NC1.jpg)
Ivory Coast won the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-1 victory over Nigeria in Sunday's final at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan.
William Troost-Ekong scored first for Nigeria while Frank Kessie equalized for the host in the 62nd minute.
Sébastien Haller scored the winning goal in the 81st minute, finishing an assist from Brighton winger Simon Adingra.
Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the game.
1) Peseiro's Tactical Changes
Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro made two alterations to the lineup that triumphed over South Africa in the semifinals, bringing in Samuel Chukwueze and Zaidu Sanusi for Moses Simon and Bright Osayi-Samuel respectively.
However, both substitutions proved ineffective, as Peseiro eventually replaced both players during the match.
2. Haller's Impact and Osimhen's Struggles
Sébastien Haller proved decisive for the Elephants, scoring the winning goal nine minutes from time.
On the other hand, Osimhen struggled throughout the game, failing to find the net since his equalizer against Equatorial Guinea in the tournament's opening fixture.
3. Aina's Defensive Struggles
Simon Adingra's outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match accolade, as he troubled Nigerian defender Ola Aina and ultimately provided the assist for the winning goal.
4. Defensive Vulnerabilities
Nigeria's defensive frailties, evident in their match against South Africa, were once again exposed by Ivory Coast.
The Super Eagles conceded nine shots in the first half alone, ultimately conceding two goals, marking the first time in the tournament they had allowed more than one goal in a game.
5. Lack of Intensity
The Super Eagles lacked intensity against Ivory Coast, particularly in their forward press, allowing the hosts to dominate possession for much of 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
- Former Gunner Okonkwo reveals how his Nigerian dad forced him to watch Manchester United
- Done deal: Stockport County loan in Crystal Palace defender Adaramola
- Exciting forward Ladapo training with Rochdale after leaving Charlton Athletic
- 'Shola gave Nigeria a call when he was 30' - Mikel joins dual nationality debate with dig at Newcastle icon
- 2024 USA Tour: Chukwueze named in AC Milan squad to face Man City, Real Madrid, Barcelona
- Why soccer is the perfect sport for students
- Report: Chelsea winger Noni Madueke gives green light to Newcastle United move
- Nigerian footballers in the Premier League: Who has had the biggest impact?
- A guide to the winning blend of fantasy sports and casinos in Australia
- 'A great goalkeeper' - Legendary Brazil forward Marta hails Super Falcons star Chiamaka Nnadozie
![As featured on NewsNow: Football News](pics/newsnow_ab.gif)
![Hire the right candidates on MyJobMag](https://www.myjobmag.com/images/recruit-ad1.png)
- Football Betting
- African Players
- Australia/ Asia
- Belgian Championship
- Bundesliga
- Danish Football
- English Premier League
- Nigeria National Teams
- Nigeria Premier League
- Norwegian Football
- Polish Football
- Russian Championship
- Serie A
- Spanish Liga
- Swedish Championship
- Transfer
- Turkish Championship
- Ukrainian Football
- Uncategorized
- okvip ing
- 789bet
- Women's Football