Didier Drogba, the former Ivory Coast striker, expresses concern about the formidable challenge the Super Eagles pose to the Elephants in Group A at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, set to kick off in January 2024, according to IWITNESSLIVE Sports.
The Elephants, aiming for their third AFCON title, face stiff competition from Nigeria, led by the reigning African Footballer of The Year, Victor Osimhen, in a group that includes Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau. Drogba, a five-time AFCON participant, anticipates a challenging journey for the host nation in a highly competitive group.
“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 Eagles last won the AFCON 10 years ago in South Africa and they defeated Ivory Coast in the quarter-finals on the way to that triumph in 2013.
Meanwhile, Eagles’ coach, Jose Peseiro, remains upbeat about the chances of his side, ahead of the forthcoming 2023 AFCON.
Speaking with us, the Portuguese coach, said, “We want to win the AFCON, so it’s not important to choose or want to avoid any opponent.
“The best moments are all those I was and I’m with my players, working to improve our organisation and our team spirit.”
