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Former Nigerian international Austin Okocha has shared his insights with the Super Eagles on how to conquer Cote d’Ivoire in their upcoming match at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
As both teams, considered favourites to topple Senegal as the African champions, prepare for a face-off filled with talent and European-based stars, Okocha's guidance could be pivotal.
Super Eagles keys to Victory: Experience, Desire, and Mindset
Okocha, a revered figure in Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON winner, has been closely involved with the team. His recent engagement includes a heartwarming moment where he was seen dancing with the players in their dressing room.
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12:48 - 18.01.2024
AFCON 2023: Ivory Coast close down schools, mobilise fans to fill up the stadium for Super Eagles game
Host nation Ivory Coast are doing all they can to fill up the stadium and intimidate the Super Eagles ahead of the big match in Group A such as closing schools in Abidjan and mobilising supporters with free transportation.
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06:09 - 18.01.2024
AFCON 2023: Okocha, Ambode provide a boost for the Super Eagles ahead of Ivory Coast clash
The ex-Bolton star and former Lagos Governor lightened up Super Eagles players' mood ahead of the all-important 2023 Africa Cup of Nations clash against Ivory Coast.
He acknowledges the challenge posed by Cote d’Ivoire, especially since they are the host nation and have kicked off their campaign with a 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau. However, he remains optimistic about Nigeria's chances.
“I think what the key will be is experience, desire, and state of mind,” Okocha said, according to Soccernet. He emphasizes the importance of the player's mindset and their understanding of the match's significance.
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Okocha believes that to emerge as champions, Nigeria must be ready to take on the best, and with the right preparation, they have a good shot at victory.
After the speech, the players sang a song that had the legend's name 'Okocha' in the lyrics and they all danced to the song including the Super Eagles legend.
Spotlight on Victor Osimhen: Nigeria's Ace Striker
The Super Eagles' attack is expected to be spearheaded by Napoli's prolific striker Victor Osimhen. Despite the presence of other talented forwards like Paul Onuachu, Terem Moffi, and Kelechi Iheanacho, Osimhen is seen as the primary choice for leading the charge. He demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess by netting Nigeria's only goal in their 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea.
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Okocha acknowledges Osimhen's capabilities and stresses the need for the team to create opportunities for him. “We know that Victor Osimhen is a world-class goalscorer, a very great player.
He needs the services of his team and I believe he got them in the first match,” he remarked. Okocha is confident in Osimhen's ability to bounce back from any missed chances and sees him as a beacon of hope for the team.
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