2023 AFCON Winner Predictions: Nigeria v Ivory Coast

Image source: Flickr

The finalists for the African Cup of Nations final are set – Nigeria will meet Ivory Coast on February 11th. What do the latest 2023 AFCON winner predictions say about the next champion?

2023 AFCON winner predictions

Only two teams remain in contention for the trophy, edging closer to the opportunity to lift it. In the past few weeks, we have witnessed some surprising departures of prominent teams like Egypt, Senegal, Morocco, and Ghana, exiting the tournament early. The looming question now is who will emerge as the champions of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, according to online sportsbooks in Nigeria.

The stage is set for the final showdown following two thrilling semi-final matches. Nigeria secured their spot in the final by triumphing over South Africa in a tense penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerging as the hero by saving two crucial penalties. The match saw Nigeria initially taking the lead through William Troost-Ekong, only for Reboho Mokoena to equalise in injury time, leading to extra time where South Africa’s Grant Kekana was sent off before Kelechi Iheanacho sealed Nigeria’s victory with a decisive penalty.

Meanwhile, Ivory Coast managed to edge past DR Congo with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a goal from Sebastien Haller. The goal, orchestrated by Max Gradel, ignited celebrations at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, as Ivory Coast proved their mettle under the pressure of being the host nation. With this result, DR Congo will compete against South Africa in the third-place playoff, while Nigeria and Ivory Coast will vie for the prestigious title.

What do bookies say about the 2023 AFCON winner predictions? Nigeria seeks their fourth title, having last claimed victory in 2013, while Ivory Coast, guided by caretaker manager Emerse Fae, aims for their third AFCON crown, the most recent of which was secured in 2015 after defeating Ghana. Who will win? Nigeria has 2.85 odds at Bet365, while Ivory Coast’s chances are 3.00.

Click here to check out all the related odds at the bet365 Sportsbook