Super Eagles aim for AFCON knockout stage against Guinea

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face Guinea-Bissau on Monday in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group A encounter, with Nigeria seeking at least a draw to secure advancement to the knockout stage. Nigeria currently sits second in Group A after drawing 1-1 and winning 0-1 in their first two games against Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast, respectively.

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Guinea-Bissau, on the other hand, has faced two losses in their initial matches and is eager to cause an upset against the Super Eagles at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium. The head coach of Guinea-Bissau, Baciro Condé, stated, “Indeed, we are going to base ourselves on this match. We have analyzed the game of the Super Eagles well, and we hope to make a success of our exit.”

Victor Osimhen, a striker for the Super Eagles, emphasized the importance of studying Guinea-Bissau’s gameplay, particularly focusing on their loss during the 2023 AFCON qualifying group stage last year. Osimhen noted that Guinea-Bissau is a dangerous team if allowed to play.

Despite the shock defeat in the 2023 AFCON qualifying, Super Eagles coach José Peseiro expressed the team’s confidence in the present and future. Peseiro insisted, “We are aiming for first place which is also occupied by Equatorial Guinea and Cote d’Ivoire; it is up to us to remain vigilant.”

Defender Kenneth Omeruo outlined the team’s clear objective to win the AFCON trophy in Ivory Coast. He acknowledged the disappointment of previous defeats but emphasized the hunger for victory and the determination to achieve their ambitions.

In another Group A matchup on Monday, hosts Ivory Coast will face Equatorial Guinea in a must-win encounter at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe. After a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Nigeria, the Elephants need a victory to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Both Group A matches are scheduled to be played simultaneously at 6 pm Nigerian time, promising suspense and excitement for AFCON fans.