In a Group A match at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Nigeria defeated Africa Cup of Nations hosts Ivory Coast 1-0 with a second-half penalty, captained by William Troost-Ekong, settling the encounter after a VAR review showed that young Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande had impeded Victor Osimhen.
As a result of this victory, Nigeria moved above Ivory Coast in the standings on four points along with Equatorial Guinea, who beat Guinea Bissau 4-2 earlier, while the hosts have three points.
The match between the two west African heavyweights was characterized as being largely languid, dominated by physical battles and with few clear-cut chances created. However, a penalty was awarded after Diomande was found to have caught Osimhen on the knee within the penalty area, which Troost-Ekong capitalized on to secure the win.
Nigeria showcased a strong defensive performance, playing five across the back and limiting the home attack’s opportunities, while also displaying a more dangerous presence up front, with Osimhen squandering an early opportunity to take the lead.
In the first half, Christian Kouame came closest for the hosts, but his effort was blocked by Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. Despite nine minutes of stoppage time, the Ivorians never appeared likely to break down the Super Eagles, who secured their first win in the Ivory Coast in 10 attempts.
Ivory Coast is still in a good position to advance, having already secured three points from a 2-0 win in their opener against Guinea Bissau. They will face Equatorial Guinea in their final group game on Monday, while Nigeria will play Guinea Bissau at the same time. Both matches will be held in Abidjan at stadiums situated at the opposite ends of the city.
Later on Thursday, Egypt and Ghana were to play the last of three matches in one day at the tournament in a Group B clash. (Editing by Christian Radnedge)
