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The finalists for the AFCON 2023 have been determined. Nigeria, nicknamed the Super Eagles, have booked their place in Sunday’s final after holding their nerve in a penalty shootout against South Africa, who had advanced to the semis after winning their quarter-final against Senegal by the same method. It was not to be for Bafana Bafana this time round from the spot, missing two crucial penalties.
In the other match, hosts Ivory Coast managed to come out victorious against DR Congo by 1 goal to nil. Former West Ham United striker Sebastian Haller scored the only goal in what was a cagey affair. DR Congo made a small protest in the form of a hand-over-the-mouth gesture before the game about the turmoil in the Eastern region of their country. Despite bring hosts, the Elephants will go into the much as underdogs. However, the seems to be able to produce when it really matters.
Nigeria has looked like the most balanced team in the tournament, with a star-studded frontline of Moses Simon, Victor Osihmen, and Ademola Lookman complementing the midfield and defence. They will be favourites going into the finals, controlling large parts of the matches against Angola in the quarter-finals where they won 1-0 thanks to an Ademola Lookman strike. All of Nigeria’s forwards look threatening, and they can also call on AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze from the bench to add potency. Their midfield has looked very competitive but silky on the ball, with Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka pulling the strings.
Ivory Coast does not have the same firepower as Nigeria. They have scored goals very late when they have progressed in the knockout stages, defeating Mali in the quarter-finals in the late minute of extra time and have not demonstrated that they have much of a cutting edge. However, they have a team with an engine; players like Sekou Fofana have been outstanding, and Jean Michaël Seri and Franck Kessie have looked impressive in the middle of the pitch. Since Jean-Louis Gasset was removed as head coach after the group stages, interim head coach Emerse Fae has opted for the experience of Pepe, Gradel and Haller up front in a bid to better their fortunes, and so far it has paid off.
The finals take place this Sunday 11th February at 20:00 GMT at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan. I think it’s going to be a tight game but, I have Nigeria to win by 2 goals to 1. Let me know your predictions in the comments below.
