The Super Eagles are poised to adopt their familiar 3-4-3 formation against Cote D’Ivoire, with Samuel Chukwueze and Zaidu Sanusi being the only alterations in the starting lineup compared to the previous match.
Sanusi, who was sidelined due to injury in the encounter against South Africa, has recovered and will reclaim his position in the starting eleven.
AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, who made a notable impact as a substitute in the South Africa match, replaces Moses Simon in the lineup.
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman retain their places in the forward line.
Stanley Nwabali, who has exhibited stellar performances for the Super Eagles, assumes the goalkeeper role, while William Troost Ekong leads the defensive lineup alongside Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey.
In midfield, the established trio maintains their starting positions: Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, and Ola Aina.
The Nigeria starting XI against Cote D’Ivoire comprises Stanley Nwabali, Semi Ajayi, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi, Ola Aina, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Victor Osimhen.
Live Match Update: Troost-Ekong’s header gives Nigeria the Lead!
Nigeria vs. Ivory Coast: The game has been dominated by Ivory Coast so far, but it’s Nigeria who strikes first!
After a relentless exchange of possession, William Troost-Ekong rises to the occasion, powering a sensational header into the net from a corner kick at the 37th minute
Troost-Ekong’s goal comes amidst a heated battle on the pitch, with both teams displaying tenacity and skill.
Osimhen and Kessie engage in a fierce contest, creating tension and excitement among the spectators.
With this remarkable header, Troost-Ekong notches goal for Nigeria, leaving Ivory Coast goalkeeper Fofana helpless.
Kessie Equalizes for Cote D’Ivoire!
61′ – Nigeria vs. Cote D’Ivoire: The tension mounts as Frank Kessie delivers a crucial header, leveling the score for Cote D’Ivoire in the 61st minute.
Amidst a flurry of action, Kessie finds himself unmarked, capitalizing on a free header to find the back of the net. Nigeria’s defense falters as Bassey fails to track Kessie’s movement, allowing the midfielder to exploit the opportunity with precision.
The goalkeeper’s attempt to thwart the shot falls short, adding to Nigeria’s defensive woes. It’s a moment of despair for the Super Eagles as Kessie’s goal exposes their vulnerability at the back.
Haller scores!
81′ – Nigeria vs. Ivory Coast: The stadium erupts in jubilation as Sebastien Haller connects with Simon Adingra’s cross, deftly guiding the ball past the goalkeeper in the 81st minute.
In a moment of sheer brilliance, Haller showcases his scoring prowess, seizing the opportunity to put Ivory Coast ahead in the dying minutes of the match.
