AFCON 2023: Super Eagles star backs Ivory Coast for victory in crunch AFCON clash

The stage is set for a high-octane battle as the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations heats up, with both teams eyeing a spot in the knockout stages.

The Ivorian team, buoyed by their convincing 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau, carries formidable momentum into the clash with Nigeria. 

The Elephants, playing in front of a home crowd, seem to have an upper hand, a sentiment echoed by Akpeyi. "It’s going to be a tough game against Ivory Coast as they are the host country,” said Akpeyi, as reported by Soccernet.

He further added, “I am giving it to the hosts because they will have a huge support at the stadium, but again this is football and anything can happen."

Despite Nigeria's lukewarm start with a 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea, there's still hope for the three-time AFCON champions. Akpeyi, who has donned the Nigerian jersey 19 times, acknowledges the potential for an upset. 

Recalling the 2019 incident where Bafana Bafana overthrew Egypt, he stated, “I remember in 2019, Bafana defeated Egypt when they were the hosts, so if Nigeria shows up, they can upset Ivory Coast.”

The Super Eagles, under the guidance of head coach Jose Peseiro, are placing their bets on Chippa United's Stanley Nwabali, who replaced Francis Uzoho as the first-choice goalkeeper. 

Nwabali, who debuted against Equatorial Guinea, is all set to prove his mettle and aim for his first clean sheet in the crucial match against Cote d’Ivoire.