Super Eagles hitman Victor Osimhen says the team’s victory over hosts Côte d’Ivoire at the Africa Cup of Nations was an important one.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles got the better off Côte d’Ivoire, as they soared past their rivals with a 1-0 win in a Group A enthralling, thanks to captain William Troost-Ekong’s winning goal from the penalty spot.
The Eagles were condemned to win to redeem their image as one of the pre-tournament favourites after their disappointing opening day 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea.
As expected, in a lively showdown, with the points and bragging rights at stake; both teams fought tooth-and-nail for the win in front of a crowd of 49,517 spectators at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan.
Ultimately, Nigeria prevailed by a lone goal with Osimhen having a hand in it, winning a penalty after he was fouled by Ousmane Diomande in the 18-yard box and Troost-Ekong converted it coolly.
Speaking after the game, the Napoli forward stated the win was important for the team and they hope to build on it.
“It feels good. It was important to make a statement win. We’re happy about this result and we’ll continue to build on this momentum,” he said in a video shared by Tobi Adepoju.
The reigning King of African Football also paid respect to the Ivorian team for their performance but stressed his side deserved to carry the day.
“Respect to the Côte d’Ivoire team, they played a good game also, but l think we deserve the win more.”
Nigeria are placed second in the group with four points, the same as table toppers Equatorial Guinea, who have a superior goal difference.
With less pressure on the Super Eagles’ side, next they take on winless Guinea-Bissau who are out of the tourney, while Côte d’Ivoire trade tackles with Equatorial Guinea in the final group games.
