Nigeria and Ivory Coast Clash Preview, Prediction, and Top Wagers
AFCON Final Preview: Nigeria vs Ivory Coast
This Sunday, football fans are geared up for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final as Nigeria takes on Ivory Coast. While these teams faced off in the Group Stage, it's a whole new ball game now. Nigeria beat Ivory Coast 1-0 back then with just one shot on target, but home advantage and recent form may swing things in the Elephants' favor.
The Super Eagles' Journey
Despite dominating their first match with 3.52 xG, Nigeria could only draw 1-1 against Equatorial Guinea. However, they managed a crucial 1-0 win over Ivory Coast in the second match, displaying a pragmatic approach to grab the victory. They then clinched second spot in the group with a 1-0 win in their third fixture.
Navigating through the knockout stages, Nigeria clinched 2-0 victories against Cameroon and Angola before edging past South Africa on pens in the semi-final after a hard-fought 1-1 draw. They only had 40% of the possession, demonstrating their ability to grind out results when needed.
Team News and Motivation
Coach Jose Peseiro is unlikely to change his starting lineup for this match despite going to extra time in the semi-final. Moses Simon will start in preference to Samuel Chukwueze. Terem Moffi made an impact from the bench in the semi-final, but Victor Osimhen will lead the line. Alex Iwobi will keep his place in central midfield. The Super Eagles are highly motivated to win this final at any cost, and they may follow their usual tactic of defending deeply and aiming for a 1-0 victory.
The Elephants' Resurgence
Ivory Coast entered this tournament in good form, with a 2-0 win against Guinea-Bissau to open their campaign. A 1-0 defeat to Nigeria saw only three shots on target from 64% possession. The team then faced a humiliating 4-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea, leading to the sacking of coach Jean-Louis Gasset.
Under new caretaker coach Emerse Fae, Ivory Coast showed tremendous resilience, drawing 1-1 with Senegal before wining on pens. They scored goals in the final minute of regulation time and extra time against Mali to advance to the semi-final, where they finally won in 90 minutes against Congo DR 1-0.
Team News and Motivation
Odilon Kossounou is set to return to the starting XI in place of Willy Boly after suspension. Serge Aurier is an injury doubt at right back. Sebastien Haller is fit to start up front, and Ibrahima Sangare and Nicolas Pepe have to settle for a place on the bench. Young Reims striker Oumar Diakite scored in the quarter-final and will be available after serving a one-game ban. As the host nation, Cote d'Ivoire will have huge support and motivation, and they won't be afraid of extra time in this one. With some of their best attackers fit again, the Elephants will play on the front foot.
Predicted Outcome and Betting Tips
This match looks certain to be cagey and low scoring, with both teams capable of grinding out results. Nigeria may follow their usual tactic of defending deep and aiming for a 1-0 victory, but Ivory Coast's recent victories in high-pressure knockout games suggest they are peaking at the right time. Both teams have realistic chances of lifting the trophy, making this a highly anticipated final. Prediction: A close match, likely to be decided by a single goal or on penalties.
Best Bet: Nigeria to win the cup at 1.83
Value Bet: Nigeria to win by exactly 1 goal (90 mins) at 3.90
Correct Score Tip: Nigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast at 6.25
James O'Connor, a football analyst who writes about the tactics of the PSL and English Premier League, expects an exciting clash. He holds the UEFA A coaching licence and has previously worked for several clubs in analysis roles. Follow him on Twitter @footy_analysis.
[1] - SourceAfrica.com[2] - JOL football[3] - Goal.com[4] - Soccer Laduma
This AFCON final is shrouded in anticipation, with Nigeria and Ivory Coast facing off for the title. Both teams have demonstrated resilience and quality throughout the tournament, and recent form indicates that this match could go either way. Ivory Coast's home advantage and emotional lift from their dramatic run cannot be ignored, but Nigeria's experience and squad depth make them a formidable opponent. Stay tuned for a thrilling encounter!
- Despite their pragmatic approach, Nigeria's journey in the AFCON has been challenging with significant scores coming only in the knockout stages, highlighting the need for a 1-0 victory to secure wins.
- Ivory Coast, under their new caretaker coach, have displayed immense resilience and determination throughout the tournament, coupled with the support of the home crowd making them a strong contender for a 1-0 or higher victory.
- As the AFCON final nears, predictions are leaning towards a close and low-scoring match, potentially decided by a single goal or on penalties. The value bet seems to be on Nigeria to win by exactly 1 goal (90 mins) at 3.90, given their competitive spirit and propensity for securing just enough to win.
