Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has stirred the AFCON anticipation, tipping Ivory Coast for victory over Nigeria in a highly anticipated clash at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
Akpeyi emphasized the potential advantage for Ivory Coast, citing the overwhelming support they are expected to receive from their compatriots. The former goalkeeper anticipates a tough game, acknowledging the influence of the home crowd as Ivory Coast aims to secure a spot in the knockout round with a victory.
In their initial Group A encounters, Ivory Coast secured a convincing 2-0 win against Guinea-Bissau, while Nigeria played to a 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea. The stakes are high for the host nation, eyeing six crucial points and a pathway to the AFCON knockout stage.
Reflecting on the unpredictable nature of football, Akpeyi recalled the 2019 upset when Bafana Bafana defeated Egypt, the host nation at that time. Drawing parallels, he suggests that if Nigeria brings their A-game, they could potentially upset Ivory Coast.
The kick-off for this exciting encounter is scheduled for 6 pm, promising a spectacle for football enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the outcome of this AFCON clash.