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Nigeria's Super Eagles did not keep to their promise of doing it again in the AFCON 2023 after losing the final to Cote d'Ivoire.
Nigeria's defeat to Ivory Coast in the AFCON 2023 final offers important lessons for the Super Eagles to apply moving forward. Despite taking the lead through William Troost-Ekong, naive mistakes ultimately cost Nigeria continental glory
Here are five lessons from Nigeria’s painful loss to the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire.
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07:30 - 12.02.2024
AFCON 2023: Should Jose Peseiro stay as Super Eagles boss after final loss?
Despite surpassing expectations by taking Nigeria to the Cup of Nations final, doubts remain about the Portuguese manager.
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00:49 - 12.02.2024
Super Eagles Vice-Captain Troost-Ekong Wins AFCON 2023 Player of the Tournament
Nigeria's William Troost-Ekong was crowned AFCON 2023 Player of the Tournament despite Nigeria losing the final to Ivory Coast
Slow starts are costly
Nigeria looked off the pace early and conceded possession to the hosts who went on to dictate the game.
The Elephants ceased the early momentum, leaving the Super Eagles to struggle to assert themselves in the encounter.
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Despite taking a first half lead, Nigeria never looked like hurting Ivory Coast, highlighting the importance of a quicker tempo needed from the first whistle.
Lack of creativity hurt
Nigeria struggled to create chances and test the Ivorian keeper who was on holiday for most of the clash.
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Despite goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali's busy performance, the Super Eagles created little in terms of goal-scoring chances, leaving them at a disadvantage against a determined Ivory Coast side.
The Super Eagles needed more ingenuity and ideas in attack, especially after the home side found a way back into the clash.
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Over-reliance on direct play
Nigeria focused on their trusted long balls but lacked variety. The absence of Plan B highlighted the importance of tactical flexibility and adaptation.
More nuance and unpredictability were needed in Jose Peseiro’s tactical plan for the glory battle.
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Never settle for silver
Against the run of play, William Troost-Ekong headed Nigeria ahead, but the Super Eagles were unable to hold on.
The towering header by Ekong earned him the Player of the Tournament award, it ultimately wasn't enough to secure victory for Nigeria, however.
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While exceptional efforts from key players can significantly impact the outcome of important matches, it is the collective team effort that remains paramount in achieving victory.
Defensive Vigilance and Individual Form
Ola Aina's off day allowed Brighton and Hove Albion star Adingra to enjoy a stellar performance for Ivory Coast in the final.
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Aina's struggles allowed the youngster to capitalise on scoring opportunities, ultimately contributing to Nigeria's defeat.
This underlines the importance of consistency and sharpness from every player, especially in high-pressure situations where even minor lapses in concentration can prove costly.
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