5 months ago
24 The Super Eagles ended their winless run with a hard fought 1-0 win against Côte d’Ivoire in Group A of the AFCON 2023.
It was a far better performance compared to their disappointing opener against Equatorial Guinea.
Following the win against the Ivorians, here is Completesports.com’s ratings on the Eagles players performance.
Stanley Nwabali
Faced his first real competitive test in the Super Eagles shirt and was impressive throughout.
Made two big first half saves and always looked assured when coming out for aerial balls – 7
Ola Aina
Was defensively solid in the entirety of the encounter as the Ivorians could not penetrate is own side of the backline – 7
Seyi Ajayi
Put in a top perform in central defence as he contributed heavily in shutting out the hosts attack – 7
William Troost-Ekong
Stepped up to convert the penalty as he sent the keeper the wrong way and was near to perfection in his control of the backline – 8
Calvin Bassey
The home side forwards found no joy coming up against him as there was no way through him – 7
Zaidu Sanusi
Almost gifted Côte d’Ivoire the opening goal with a poor clearance but had Nwabali to thank.
Also was guilty of needlessly giving the ball to the opposition – 5
Alex Iwobi
Played more of a withdrawn role but could not really influence anything – 5
Frank Onyeka
Put in a real shift in the defensive midfield position making important interceptions- 6
Samuel Chukwueze
Set up Osimhen for the first chance of the game which the striker failed to convert.
Was also guilty of some wayward passes and missed a good chance from a counter – 6
Ademola Lookman
A threat going forward with his dazzling runs and constantly committing the home team players – 7
Victor Osimhen
Had a great chance to open the scoring from a Chukwueze pass but volleyed over the bar.
His constant harassment of Côte d’Ivoire’s backline led to him being fouled leading to the penalty being awarded – 9
Substitutes:
Moses Simon
Came on to help in the attack and he also carried out his defensive duties well – 6
Bright Osayi-Samuel
Made a brilliant solo run into the box from his half only to see his attempted shot blocked – 6
Kenneth Omeruo
Came in to help solidify the defence and his wealth of experience was on display as the Eagles saw out the game – 6
Paul Onuachu
Was a handful for the home team defence as they found it difficult to dislodge him off the ball instead kept fouling him – 6
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