Afcon 2023: Cote d’Ivoire claim third title after beating Nigeria 1-2

The final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) took place in Abidjan, with Nigeria and the host nation Cote d’Ivoire battling it out for the championship title.

The match was played at the iconic Stade Olympique Alassane Ouatarra and was preceded by an electrifying closing ceremony at the stadium.

Coaches for both national teams named their starting elevens ahead of the highly anticipated encounter. Nigeria was aiming to lift a fourth Africa Cup of Nations trophy, while Cote d’Ivoire was seeking their third triumph.

The game lived up to expectations, with a lively first half that saw Nigeria take the lead against the run of play, only to be equalized by Cote d’Ivoire, and eventually come from behind to secure a 2-1 victory, claiming the championship title.

The match was filled with intense action, with tempers flaring on the touchline and loud penalty shouts from the home fans. The game was not without controversy, as the Nigeria coach was shown a red card, and there was a temporary hold-up after a clash between players.

Despite Nigeria dominating the game in the closing minutes, it was Cote d’Ivoire who emerged victorious, lifting the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations trophy after a thrilling final.