It is the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 final tonight and perennial foes Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire will square up at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan.
The history of Nigeria versus Cote d’Ivoire in AFCON dates back over 40 years and this night’s encounter promises to add another rich chapter to this storied rivalry.
The Herald brings to you a few interesting facts about this rivalry:
- The first AFCON game between Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria was in 1980. The match, which was held in Nigeria, ended in a 1-1 draw.
- Nigeria’s first AFCON win against Côte d’Ivoire was at the 1990 edition. The Super Eagles won the match 1-0 thanks to a goal from Rashidi Yekini.
- Côte d’Ivoire’s first AFCON win against Nigeria was in 2006. The Elephants won the match 1-0 thanks to a goal from Didier Drogba.
- Nigeria has more wins against Côte d’Ivoire in their AFCON meetings. The Super Eagles have three wins to the Elephants’ two, with one draw.
- The most recent meeting between the two teams was in the group stages at the current AFCON. The hosts lost 1-0 to Nigeria courtesy of a 55th-minute penalty converted by William Troost-Ekong.
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