By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-01-18 11:12:01
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are preparing to clash with the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire in Group A of AFCON 2023. This long-standing rivalry, coupled with an abundance of talent on both sides, promises an electrifying spectacle that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. But before the epic showdown begins, let’s take a look at five enthralling facts about their past encounters in AFCON:
1. The first AFCON game between Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria took place in 1980, and it ended goalless. Nigeria and Egypt went on to qualify for the semi-finals, while Côte d’Ivoire and Tanzania were eliminated. Nigeria would eventually go on to win its first AFCON title.
2. Nigeria’s first AFCON victory against Côte d’Ivoire occurred in 1990 when they emerged victorious with a score of 1-0. The late Rashidi Yekini scored the only goal in that game, propelling Nigeria to the semi-finals alongside hosts Algeria, while Côte d’Ivoire and Egypt were eliminated at the group stage.
3. Côte d’Ivoire recorded their first AFCON win against Nigeria in 2006 with a single goal courtesy of Didier Drogba. This victory secured their place in the final, where they ultimately lost to hosts Egypt after a penalty shootout.
4. In their six AFCON meetings, Nigeria has secured three wins to Côte d’Ivoire’s two, with one match ending in a draw. Nigeria’s victories came in the 1990, 1994, and 2013 tournaments, while Côte d’Ivoire emerged victorious in the 2006 and 2008 editions.
5. Ahead of their upcoming clash in 2023, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria have met in the group stage at the AFCON three times. Their first encounter in the group stage was in 1980, followed by a meeting in 1990, where Nigeria emerged triumphant with a 1-0 victory. In the 2008 edition, Côte d’Ivoire secured a 1-0 win, marking the most recent group stage encounter between the two teams.
As fans eagerly await this highly anticipated match, the stage is set for another riveting chapter in the historic rivalry between Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria.
Read the original article on The Guardian
