In the ongoing AFCON 2023, Nigeria, a three-time champion with rich history, faces Equatorial Guinea in the second Group A match following the tournament opener between Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau. Having secured their 20th appearance, Nigeria’s AFCON journey includes three victories, the latest being 2013. Despite a strong presence in the 1980s and 1990s, they reached the final only twice in the last 14 tournaments since their 1994 triumph.
Qualifying as Group A winners with 15 points, Nigeria showcased a robust performance led by key player Victor Osimhen, the top scorer in AFCON qualifiers. Equatorial Guinea, participating in only their second AFCON through qualifying, aims to build on their quarter-finalist status from 2021. Their journey to AFCON 2023 saw them as runners-up in their group, narrowly missing the top spot to Tunisia on goal difference.
The encounter between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea marks their first at the Africa Cup of Nations, although they previously met in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where Nigeria secured victories without conceding a goal (1-0 and 2-0).
The squads for the upcoming match feature notable players, with Nigeria’s key figures including Victor Osimhen and Jose Peseiro. Equatorial Guinea, guided by Juan Michá, presents a lineup aiming to replicate their previous quarter-final performance. As anticipation builds, the clash promises to be a compelling chapter in AFCON 2023.
Nigeria vs Equatorial Guinea Squads
Nigeria: Olorunleke Ojo, Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, Kenneth Omeruo, William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ola Aina, Zaidu Sanusi, Alhassan Yusuf, Raphael Onyedika, Joe Aribo, Frank Onyeka, Moses Simon, Ahmed Musa, Alex Iwobi, Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Ademola Lookman, Umar Sadiq.
Coach: Jose Peseiro
Equatorial Guinea: Aitor Embela, Manuel Sapunga, Jesús Owono, Basilio Ndong, Carlos Akapo, Esteban Orozco, Néstor Senra, Marvin Anieboh, Emilio Nsue, José Elo, Charles Ondo, Féderico Bikoro, José Machín, Santiago Eneme, Pablo Ganet, Álex Balboa, Jannick Buyla, Iban Salvador, José Miranda, Salomón Obama, Noé Ela, Luís Asué.
Coach: Juan Michá
