AFCON 2023: Super Eagles Will Do Better Against Ivory Coast –Yobo

Former Nigerian international, Joseph Yobo says he’s optimistic the Super Eagles will perform better when they face Ivory Coast in their second Group A game on Thursday.

Recall that Iban Salvador netted a surprise opener for Equatorial Guinea against the run of play with a well-worked goal, but the lead lasted only two minutes before Napoli forward Osimhen headed Nigeria level.

Nigeria next meet hosts Ivory Coast in a potentially crucial pool clash on Thursday, while Equatorial Guinea face Guinea-Bissau, who lost 2-0 to the Ivorians in Saturday’s tournament opening game.

Reacting to the result, Yobo who was a guest in Afrosports AFCON 2023 Coverage, stated that the Super Eagles will display a better performance against host, Ivory Coast.

The former Everton defender, said that it as important that Nigeria didn’t lose against Equatorial Guinea.

He also commended the players fight back after going down 1-0, to leveled parity within a minute.

“Most importantly we didn’t lose this game. I believe we can do better in the next game against Ivory Coast. In as much as we had chances to beat Equatorial Guinea, I will however, encourage the team to focus on their next game.

“Super Eagles still have the character of reacting when they concede a goal, The confidence of the team is there and I am happy that they reacted perfectly well few seconds after going down one goal.

“Credit to Osimhen for netting the goal and also Lookman for providing the assist. The team must keep the spirit going.

“Kudos should also go the Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper because he made some brilliant saves and at some point, covered up for some of the lapses from his defenders.”