Nigeria will seek a first victory at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations when it meets hosts Cote d’Ivoire today at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
While Cote d’Ivoire claimed an impressive 2-0 victory against Guinea-Bissau in the tournament’s opening game, the Super Eagles wobbled to a lacklustre 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea.
The Super Eagles must avoid a defeat and possibly beat hosts Cote d’Ivoire to brighten their chances of making it to the knockout round of the AFCON.
Already, midfielder Alhassan Yusuf will not feature in today’s epic AFCON clash against host nation Cote d’Ivoire as he recovers from injury.
“We had good news on him yesterday, but he is not available for tomorrow, maybe next game,” announced coach Jose Peseiro.
The Antwerp star suffered a thigh injury against Equatorial Guinea at the weekend.
A scan will later show that he only suffered a knock.
He is now sweating to be fit for the Super Eagles final Group A match against Guinea Bissau on January 22.
However, Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho could partner Victor Osimhen in the Super Eagles attack. Other possible strike partners for the Napoli hitman are Ademla Lookman, Paul Onuachu and Terem Moffi, a late arrival to the team’s camp.
Iheanacho, with his experience, efficiency, and excellent passing range, could be a perfect strike partner for Osimhen.