Football

Giants clash as AFCON enters day six

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen in training ahead of the game against Ivory Coast © Super Eagles

By Rama Mohammed | Thursday, January 18, 2024

The highlight of the day will be the Nigeria versus Ivory Coast clash that kicks off at 8PM EAT

The excitement of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) continues to unfold, with three thrilling matches set to take place on Thursday evening in Ivory Coast. The action kicks off with Equatorial Guinea facing Guinea-Bissau at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara from 5PM EAT.

Both Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau, having failed to secure maximum points in their opening encounters, are eager to spark their AFCON campaign with a decisive three points. Equatorial Guinea drew 1-1 against Nigeria, while Guinea-Bissau suffered a 2-0 defeat against hosts Ivory Coast. The teams previously clashed in a friendly in March 2022, resulting in Guinea-Bissau securing a convincing 3-0 win.

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Group A action resumes with a captivating clash between hosts Cote d’Ivoire and a redemption-seeking Nigeria. The Elephants secured a commanding 2-0 victory in their opening match against Guinea-Bissau, while the Super Eagles managed a comeback for a 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea.

Final training before game vs #CIV #soarsupereagles #letsdoitagain pic.twitter.com/7m7uxMgPJ1
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) January 17, 2024

Coach Jean-Louis Gasset's Super Eagles face the challenge of a confident Cote d’Ivoire, supported by a vocal crowd at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium. The return of Sébastien Haller from injury and the availability of Simon Adingra may provide a boost to Nigeria's chances. With a continental title at stake, this encounter promises to be a compelling showcase for African football.

The day concludes with Egypt, the tournament record holders, facing West African giants Ghana in a late kick-off at 11 PM EAT. Both teams are aiming for nothing less than victory after facing unconvincing performances in their opening matches.

Egypt drew 1-1 against Mozambique, raising questions about their ability to clinch a record-extending title. Meanwhile, Ghana was stunned by Cape Verde with a 2-1 defeat, questioning the Black Stars' team despite being star-studded. An incident where a fan attempted to attack coach Chris Hughton added to the challenges faced by Ghana.

Both teams find themselves in a tricky position, needing a win against the so-called underdogs of the group, Cape Verde and Mozambique, who are currently high on confidence. This will mark the fifth AFCON meeting between the two giants, with Egypt securing two wins, Ghana winning once, and one match ending in a draw. The match is poised to be a pivotal moment for both teams in the tournament, adding an extra layer of anticipation to Thursday's AFCON action.

Wednesday results

Morocco 3-0 Tanzania

DR Congo 1-1 Zambia

Thursday fixtures

Equatorial Guinea vs Guinea Bissau - 5PM EAT

Ivory Coast vs Nigeria - 8PM EAT

Egypt vs Ghana - 11PM EAT