Dean Furman Applauds Super Eagles’ Defensive Excellence in 1-0 Triumph Over Ivory Coast at AFCON 2023″

Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Dean Furman expressed admiration for the Super Eagles’ defensive prowess in their 1-0 victory against Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday.

After a lackluster 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their opening match at the ongoing tournament in Ivory Coast, the three-time African champions sought a strong response. Central defender William Troost-Ekong, donning the captain’s armband, secured the win with a penalty ten minutes into the second half, following a foul on Nigeria’s star player Victor Osimhen in the box.

The defensive trio of Semi Ajayi, Frank Onyeka, and Troost-Ekong showcased brilliant performances, with special mention given to Calvin Bassey on his starting debut at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Furman, known for his time with Bafana Bafana, praised the Super Eagles for defying expectations and delivering an outstanding defensive performance that frustrated their opponents. In an interview with the BBC, Furman commended the tactical masterclass displayed by the Nigerians, who operated in a 5-4-1 (3-4-3) formation.

“The back five, every single one of them put their hand up and said there’s no way you’re getting through us today Ivory Coast. On the break, they were a threat,” Furman remarked. He described the performance as a “statement win,” acknowledging that the players would gain confidence from beating a top nation in the competition.

Furman was part of the South African team that was defeated 2-1 by Nigeria in the quarterfinals of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.