AFCON 2023: “We have a game plan”-Arsenal star Alex Iwobi says ahead of cracker against Ivory Coast

The Super Eagles are condemned to get a result against Ivory Coast after getting one point from their opener against Ivory Coast

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has stated that the team already has a game plan to help them bounce back against Ivory Coast after a disappointing draw from their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations opener against Equatorial Guinea, Soccernet.ng reports.

Three-time African champions Nigeria began their 2023 AFCON journey with a draw against Equatorial Guinea. Jose Peseiro’s lads bossed the fixture, but they were pegged back against the run of play via a strike from Iban Salvador.

However, Osimhen drew level for Nigeria just minutes later. The Super Eagles created many chances, but they failed to convert and had to settle for a draw.

Next for Nigeria is a tough fixture against hosts Ivory Coast, who are the Super Eagles’ perennial rivals. Unlike the Super Eagles, Ivory Coast won their first game against Guinea-Bissau. The Elephants also have the home advantage as hosts. Still, former Arsenal midfielder Iwobi is positive that Nigeria will get something from the fixture.

“Considering the result we got against Equatorial Guinea, we want to make sure we put things right,” Iwobi said, per Soccernet.ng.

“Of course, it would be a big message if we are able to beat the hosts. We know it’s not going to be easy, but we have a game plan, and hopefully, we can get a result that favours us.”

The last time both teams met at the AFCON was in 2013, when Nigeria defeated them 2-1 in the quarter-finals. Both teams have brilliant players, but if Peseiro can get his tactical right, the Super Eagles can get something from the fixture.