2023 AFCON: Three hits and three flops from the Super Eagles’ 1-0 win against Elephants

A moment of individual brilliance from Victor Osimhen who went down from harsh challenge in the box,helped Nigeria claim the much needed three points to separate a cagey affair as Nigeria edged past Ivory Coast 1-0.

 

Captain William Troost-Ekong made sure he made no mistakes from the spot as he placed the ball perfectly through the middle, sending Yahya Fofana in goal for Ivory Coast the opposite direction.

 

While maximum have points provided relief for Peseiro, concerns still linger in multiple areas the Portuguese must address before sterner examinations ahead. Relying solely on the excellence of the vast forwards remains an unsustainable strategy.

 

Allnigeriasoccer.com takes a look at the three hits and three flops from the game.

 

Hits

 

Victor Osimhen

 

Even on an evening when Nigeria lacked adequate ball possession, Victor Osimhen showcased world class ability to manufacture something from nothing.

 

Blistering solo runs leaving helpless defenders in his wake as well as his elite positioning produced the penalty call by the video assistant referee to break the deadlock ten minutes into the second half.

 

William Troost-Ekong

 

Much needn’t be said about the Super Eagles skipper as he produced an absolute defensive masterclass to repel the threat from Ivory Coast’s forward trio.

 

Strong in the air and savvy in his positioning, Troost-Ekong made perfectly timed tackles and interceptions to protect Nigeria’s backline alongside getting the lone goal. He made the difference in the blockbuster fixture. A real captain’s performance. 

 

Ola Aina

 

Tireless running and underrated playmaking abilities from the Chelsea Academy graduate helped paper over cracks in midfield as well covering the entire right flank expertly.

 

Aina was absolutely exceptional both in intercepting possession patiently and sparking counter attacks with piercing runs and crosses into the box. His work rate and two way contributions throughout the entirety of the game won the hearts of many.

 

Flops

 

Moses Simon

 

Although the FC Nantes winger showed some flashes of brilliance at some points in the game, He just wasn’t at his best.

 

Caught off guard by the physicality, Simon majorly failed to measure up to his club level standards effectively in a muted display, as the Ivorians made sure that he had absolutely no pocket of space to perform his usual mesmerizing dribbles.

 

Ademola Lookman

 

The Atalanta BC wideman failed to impress on the night. Slow releasing passes while lacking sharpness or chemistry with teammates, it’s safe to say that Lookman offered absolutely no threat from the left flank.

 

Samuel Chukwueze

 

This will definitely be one of those days at the office to easily for the AC Milan wideman. Some neat touches could not mask an inability to beat his fullback or deliver threatening crosses once more for Nigeria’s inconsistent right winger.  

    

 

Ejim Kaycee

 

 

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