SCORENigeria rates the individual performances of the Super Eagles after a 1-0 win over 2023 AFCON hosts Cote d’Ivoire in Abidjan.
7 Stanley Nwabali
A confident display by the team’s new goalkeeper and his first clean sheet in four appearances for Nigeria. He did well to keep the ball off the feet of an Ivorian attacker late in the second half after he made himself big to block a goal-bound shot early in the first half.
7 Calvin Bassey
Was effective in his first start in this tournament. One of his best outings for Nigeria and will boost his confidence in a green shirt.
8 William Ekong
Played a captain’s game. He fired home the penalty to give Nigeria their first-ever win in Cote d’Ivoire. He marshaled the defence very well to give them their first clean sheet since September 2023.
7 Semi Ajayi
He was not spectacular as always, but put in a decent shift to shut out the Elephants.
6 Zaidu Sanusi
Worked his socks off and a much improved performance than what he produced against Equatorial Guinea.
8 Ola Aina
One of the hardest working players on the day as he surged forward from his left back position again and again.
7 Frank Onyeka
One of his best outings for the Super Eagles. He covered every blade of grass to provide cover for the defence and was full of running the entire match. Decent.
7 Alex Iwobi
Showed some creative impetus, but crucially put in the work in the middle of the park. He could have done a little more by playing closer to the attack.
8 Ademola Lookman
Busy as a bee, he played out his heart and deserved much more for all the hard work. He is enjoying his football with the national team even as a left winger.
9 Victor Osimhen
He got an assist for causing the penalty. He kept his markers on their toes.
6 Samuel Chukwueze
Conjured a few tricks, but failed to make the most of some openings that would have put this game to bed with a couple more goals. Poor passes and decision making.
(3-4-3)Stanley Nwabali- Calvin Bassey, William Ekong, Semi Ajayi – Zaidu Sanusi (Kenneth Omeruo 79), Ola Aina, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi – Ademola Lookman (Osayi-Samuel 79), Victor Osimhen (Paul Onuachu 88), Samuel Chukwueze (Moses Simon 72)
