Didier Drogba, a former Ivory Coast striker, is concerned about the threat the Super Eagles would offer to the Elephants of Cote D’ivoire in Group A when the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) begins in January 2024.
The Elephants are aiming for their third AFCON title after winning in 1992 and 2015, while Nigeria, led by current African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen, will be aiming for their fourth trophy in history.
Ivory Coast has been drawn in Group A alongside three-time winners Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau.
Drogba, who has played in five AFCON tournaments and led the Ivorians to the final in 2012, where they were defeated 8-7 on penalties by Zambia after extra time ended goalless, predicts a challenging group for the hosts.
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“There’s no such thing as a generous draw because all the teams deserve to be here and they’re going to fight,” Drogba, who scored 65 goals for the Elephants told the BBC.
“Nigeria, with Victor Osimhen and all the players they have, is a big team. We mustn’t forget the other two teams because there are always surprises.
“I think that our main asset will be to focus on our game, our team, our strengths and try to progress. It’s up to us to make the most of it, get behind our team and make sure the trophy stays at home.”
The Super Eagles last won the AFCON in South Africa ten years ago, defeating Ivory Coast in the quarter-finals on their road to victory in 2013.