AFCON final: 10 players to watch in Nigeria vs Cotê d’Ivoire clash

Hosts Cotê d’Ivoire will face off against one of Africa’s giants Nigeria in the final of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023.

The clash will draw the curtains on an epic showdown, with both Nigeria and Cotê d’Ivoire hoping to add to their trophy cabinet.

For Cotê d’Ivoire, this will be their third title should they record a victory against Nigeria.

For the Super Eagles, this will be their fourth title should the African football gods smile their way.

Sporting Tribune looks at some of the key stars for both countries in the final game of the competition.

Victor Osimhen

The reigning African Footballer of the Year has played an excellent role for Nigeria. Despite just registering a single goal, Osimhen has been troublesome to defenders, also creating goalscoring chances, set pieces and penalties for his side.

The final presents the perfect platform for the Napoli hitman to close off the tournament in style and will be hoping to get in on the goals against the hosts.

Sebastian Haller

Although Haller started playing from the knockout stage for Cotê d’Ivoire, he has been key for the hosts when called upon.

He showed up perfectly in their semi-final game against D.R Congo by scoring the game’s only goal which qualified his team to the final.

Stanley Nwabali

The final wall of defence for the Super Eagles. Stanley Nwabali has been a revelation for the Super Eagles, producing heroic saves that have seen him only concede one goal from open play en route to the final.

The Chippa United keeper was also the hero of the day in the semi-final against South Africa where he saved two penalties to send Nigeria into their final.

Seko Fofana

The Al-Nassr FC star plays with so much passion for Cotê d’Ivoire, he has been the driving force in the middle throughout this tournament.

With his name written in the history books already as the first player to score in the AFCON Côte d’Ivoire 2023, Fofana will be looking forward to making more history and hopefully clinching the trophy for Cotê d’Ivoire.

The hosts’ secret to having a great game on Sunday includes Fofana having a great time on the pitch.

William Troost-Ekong

The Super Eagles skipper has provided great on-field leadership from the back. His experience and command as the last line of defence have proven to be crucial in the explosive Nigerian attack.

A man who is always ready to step up and take responsibility, Troost-Ekong is certainly one for the big occasion when the chips are down.

Serge Aurier

The 31-year-old defender comes with a lot of experience and has shown it on the pitch anytime he is selected.

Both on and off the pitch, Aurier has added a lot to Emerse Faé’s side throughout this competition.

He played in Cotê d’Ivoire’s last CAF AFCON final and knows what it takes to play in stages like this and even conquer it.

Ademola Lookman

Ademola Lookman will certainly be looking at closing off an impressive tournament with one last-star performance.

The dangerman has terrorised defenders with his speed, skill and impassive ability to find goals. Currently on three goals and hungry for more, Lookman is certainly a key figure for the Nigerians as they attempt a fourth continental title.

Simon Adingra

Adingra has been Cotê d’Ivoire’s main man from the bench causing problems for opponents in the tournament.

He came off the bench in their quarter-final game to score against Mali and help them win the game.

The Brighton Hove Albion player gives Emerse Faé options on the bench and he will rely heavily on him in the finals.

Frank Onyeka

Stepping into the void left by Wilfred Ndidi’s injury, Onyeka solidified Nigeria’s midfield with tenacity and skill.

His exceptional work rate, ball-winning ability, and relentless disruption of opponents’ build-up play set the tone for the team.

With only Bassey ahead in tackles won, Onyeka is leading in interceptions, proving his mettle in his first major tournament as a regular starter.

Franck Kessié

Kessié has shown his quality for Cotê d’Ivoire throughout the tournament with great displays.

His late equaliser in the round of 16 and final penalty propelled the host to the quarter-finals after they struggled in the group stage.

With Nigeria’s all-round quality in the midfield, Kessié will be key for Cotê d’Ivoire in its quest for a third title.