AFCON 2023 – Super Eagles’ Moffi: “Talk is cheap” as Nigeria prepare for crucial clash with Cote d’Ivoire

The OGC Nice forward is making his maiden appearance at Africa’s biggest football festival and is optimistic the former champions will soar past the tournament hosts on Thursday

OGC Nice striker Terem Moffi has thrown his weight behind the Nigerian national team, expressing confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to secure victory against Cote d’Ivoire in their matchday two face-off at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

Cote d’Ivoire, riding high from their 2-0 triumph over Guinea-Bissau, currently lead Group A, while Nigeria face a challenging position following a lackluster 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their opening match.

Moffi, absent from that fixture due to his late inclusion as a replacement for the injured Victor Boniface, aims to make a decisive impact against the Ivorians.

The stakes are high for the Super Eagles, as a loss in this encounter could jeopardize their AFCON journey, pushing them perilously close to elimination.

In contrast, a victory for Cote d’Ivoire would secure their passage to the second round of the tournament.

Acknowledged the significance of the upcoming match, Moffi states,

“We are looking forward to this. We know how important it is for us, for the fans as well, and for Nigerians. We are going there believing and staying positive.”

Urging support from Nigerian fans, he emphasised the team’s commitment to giving their best on the field.

The striker, expressing the essence of action over words, noted,

“Talk is cheap, to be honest. I could say we are going to win the game, but it is not always like that. However, we will try to give our 100 per cent and walk off the pitch with our heads held high.”

Nigeria have secured AFCON glory three times, while Cote d’Ivoire claimed the trophy twice.

The Super Eagles have a slight head-to-head advantage over the Elephants at the AFCON, as Nigeria boast three wins and have suffered two defeats in six meetings with the Ivorians.