The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to commence their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title with a crucial clash against Equatorial Guinea at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ivory Coast on Sunday. Grouped with Guinea-Bissau and host nation Ivory Coast in Group A, Nigeria aims to begin the tournament with a victory.

However, the Super Eagles face challenges as several injuries, particularly in the attacking role, have ruled out Victor Boniface, Wilfred Ndidi, and Sodiq Umar. Coach Jose Peseiro looks to Victor Osimhen, the top scorer in the qualifiers with 10 goals, to lead Nigeria’s attack against Equatorial Guinea.

Despite a recent setback in a 2-0 friendly defeat against Guinea, Nigeria had a seven-game unbeaten run in preparation, showing promise with four wins and three draws. Ranked 42nd in the FIFA World Rankings, the Super Eagles are determined to start their AFCON campaign positively.

Captain Ahmed Musa expressed the team’s focus on securing three points in each game, stating, “It is always interesting to play in the Africa Cup of Nations.” Musa emphasized the team’s readiness, acknowledging the strong and ambitious nature of the teams in their group.

The Super Eagles campaign revolves around the mantra “Let’s Do It Again,” aiming to replicate the successes of 1980, 1994, and 2013. Equatorial Guinea, participating in only their second AFCON, qualified as group runners-up, displaying resilience in a competitive group.

Despite Nigeria’s confidence with a more experienced squad, they approach the tournament cautiously, taking it one match at a time and acknowledging the challenges posed by their opponents.