The Super Eagles’ final Group A clash in the Africa Cup of Nations against Guinea Bissau carries significant implications, extending beyond securing three points.
A victory could propel Nigeria to the top of the table, potentially leading to a more favorable opponent in the second round.
Conversely, a loss might relegate the team to third place, still securing a second-round spot but potentially facing tougher opposition.
With four points from the first two games, the Super Eagles aim to secure a favorable position in the group. Equatorial Guinea, also with four points, currently leads on superior goal difference. Guinea Bissau, having suffered two consecutive losses, is already out of the tournament.
The potential outcomes include facing either Cameroon or Guinea in the round of 16 if the Super Eagles secure a draw with Guinea Bissau. However, topping the group could set up clashes with Tunisia, South Africa, Algeria, Angola, Cameroon, or Guinea in the next round.
Despite the strategic considerations, winning Group A does not guarantee an easy path to the quarterfinals, as evidenced by past experiences. In their last AFCON appearance, despite topping their group, the Super Eagles faced a challenging round of 16 against Tunisia.
Midfielder Alhassan Yusuf will miss the crucial match against Guinea Bissau due to fitness concerns, while Kelechi Iheanacho is poised to make his tournament debut after recovering from an injury.
The encounter with Guinea Bissau holds extra significance, considering the history between the two teams, including their last meeting at the 2021 AFCON, where the Super Eagles secured a 2-0 victory.
The match is set to take place at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan at 6:00 p.m. Nigeria time.
