In this article, we provide you with the Nigeria player ratings after losing in the Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast.
Hosts Ivory Coast staged a stunning comeback to defeat Nigeria's Super Eagles 2-1 in the AFCON 2024 final, held on Sunday in Abidjan.
Second-half goals from Frank Kessie and Sebastian Haller overturned William Troost-Ekong's early header for Jose Peseiro's side.
The Elephants clinched their third AFCON title, drawing level with Nigeria on the number of titles won.
Here is an assessment of how the Super Eagles' players performed in the disappointing defeat
Nigeria player ratings against Ivory Coast
Stanley Nwabali – 8.5
He kept the Super Eagles in the game with crucial saves in the first half, commanding his goal area well and making timely interceptions. However, he could have done better with the first goal.
Olaoluwa Aina – 5.5
Under constant pressure throughout the match, Aina struggled to contain Adingra's pace and had limited opportunities to contribute to the attack. He was unable to prevent Adingra from delivering the cross for the winning goal.
Zaidu Sanusi – 6.5
The FC Porto left-back impressed with his tackles and interceptions in defense, effectively neutralizing Max Gradel. However, he missed a chance to score in the first half.
Semi Ajayi – 7.5
Ajayi was solid in the first half, effectively marking Haller and winning aerial duels. However, his defensive performance dipped in the latter stages, particularly with the let-off for the Ivory Coast's second goal.
William Troost-Ekong – 8.0
A commanding presence throughout the game, Troost-Ekong led by example and scored Nigeria's lone goal. However, he missed a chance to double the lead from another corner and was slow to close down Haller for the winning goal.
Calvin Bassey – 5.5
The Fulham centre-back had a poor game, making several faulty passes and struggling in aerial contests.
He could deal with the physical presence of Ivorian striker Haller.
Alex Iwobi – 6.0
Iwobi started brightly with his tackles and markings but faded in the second half. He looked tired and out of sorts as the game progressed.
Frank Onyeka – 8.5
Arguably Nigeria's standout player, Onyeka dominated the midfield with six interceptions, two blocks, and three tackles.
He was very efficient for the Super Eagles but unfortunately, it didn't amount to much
Ademola Lookman – 6.5
Lookman struggled to make an impact against the Ivorian defenders, although he won a few take-ons and free kicks. He was substituted because he looked jaded.
Samuel Chukwueze – 6.5
Chukwueze failed to spark Nigeria's attack and was contained by the Ivorian defence. A lot was expected from the AC Milan man but he failed to rise to the occasion.
Victor Osimhen – 7.5
Osimhen posed a threat to the Ivorian defenders with his aerial prowess and dribbling ability but struggled to make an impact in the second half.
Substitutes
Moses Simon – 7.0
An instant impact off the bench, Simon impressed with his dribbling and defensive contributions.
Yusuf Alhassan – 6.5
The young midfielder provided stability in midfield after replacing Iwobi.
Kelechi Iheanacho – 7.0
Iheanacho injected energy into Nigeria's attack and came close to equalizing but was denied by the Ivorian defense.
Joe Aribo – 5.5
Aribo failed to make a significant impact after coming on as a substitute as he look out of sorts.
Terem Moffi – 6.5
The OG Nice Moffi made a late appearance but managed to win aerial contests and contributed to the attack.
Overall, Nigeria's players showed promise but fell short against a resilient Ivorian side in the final showdown.
