The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will reach its climax on Sunday, February 11, 2024, when Nigeria and Ivory Coast face each other in the final at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
The two teams have overcome many challenges and surprises to reach this stage, and they will be eager to lift the trophy and make history. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the AFCON final and their answers.
When and where is the AFCON final?
- The AFCON final is scheduled for Sunday, February 11, 2024, at 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT.
- The venue is the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, the capital city of Ivory Coast. The stadium has a capacity of 60,000 spectators and was inaugurated in 2021.
- The referee for the final is Dahane Beida from Mauritania.
Who are the key players and coaches for both teams?
- Nigeria are coached by Jose Peseiro, a Portuguese tactician who took over the Super Eagles in 2022.
- Nigeria’s star player is Victor Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year and Napoli striker. He has scored one goal at the finals, but has been involved in many attacks and chances for his team. He is supported by fellow Serie A star Ademola Lookman, who has netted three goals for Nigeria.
- Other key players for Nigeria include captain Troost-Ekong, who has scored two high-pressure spot kicks, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who has kept four clean sheets and saved two penalties in the semi-final, and winger Moses Simon, who has provided two assists.
- Ivory Coast are coached by Patrice Beaumelle, a Frenchman who replaced Ibrahim Kamara after the group stage. He has guided the Elephants to their first AFCON final since 2015, when they won their second title.
- Ivory Coast’s star player is Sebastien Haller, the Borussia Dortmund striker who scored the winner in the semi-final against DR Congo. He has scored two goals at the finals, both in his first start for his country.
- Other key players for Ivory Coast include midfielder Franck Kessie, who has scored three goals and provided one assist, winger Simon Adingra, who has scored two goals and created two assists, and defender Evan Ndicka, who has played every minute at centre-back.
