Strategic Planning Unveiled:
Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, has disclosed that he meticulously planned the approach for the 2023 AFCON group stage game against Ivory Coast during Nigeria’s training camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Crucial Encounter Against Ivory Coast:
On January 18, coach Jose Peseiro and his team faced Ivory Coast in a must-win game at the tournament after a 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their opening AFCON match.
Cautious Gameplay Yields Victory:
During the game, the Super Eagles opted for a more cautious strategy, patiently awaiting attacks from the Ivorians in the middle of the pitch while maintaining organized defense throughout.
Game Decided by Penalty:
Fortunately, the Eagles secured the much-needed three points with a 1-0 victory, with the winning goal coming in the 55th minute through a penalty spot.
Peseiro’s Pre-Game Thoughts:
After the game, coach Jose Peseiro shared insights into his pre-game planning, stating, “I started thinking about how to approach this game when we were in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Cote d’Ivoire is a strong team with good players, so we need to close down the space and defend very well.”
Execution of Game Plan:
“We know we have to work hard and not allow them to play their football. The players did well to stick to our plan in the game.”
Group Standings and Next Challenge:
Thanks to the 1-0 win, the Super Eagles are heading into their last group stage game against Guinea-Bissau on January 22, sitting second in Group A with the same number of points (four) as first-placed Equatorial Guinea.
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