Jose Peseiro Picks Nigeria’s Toughest AFCON Match After Super Eagles Lost in Final to Ivory Coast

• The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations wrapped up with the final last Sunday
• Tournament hosts, Ivory Coast, defeated Nigeria to clinch the trophy
• Coach, Jose Peseiro, has named his toughest game at the showpiece

The buzz continues despite the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) reaching its pinnacle with an intense final showdown between Ivory Coast and Nigeria.

In the days following the culmination of the continental tournament, discussion continues over the host nation's miracle run and the Super Eagles falling just short.

Les Elephants clinched a remarkable come-from-behind victory to claim the AFCON trophy, thanks to goals from midfielder, Franck Kessie, and forward, Sebastien Haller.

The win saw the Ivorians tie the Super Eagles in terms of the number of African championships won.

Stanley Nwabali shines as Nigeria defeats South Africa in Ivory Coast

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Meanwhile, Jose Peseiro - coach of the Nigerian national team - has identified the team's toughest fixture at the recently concluded showpiece.

Peseiro on Nigeria's toughest AFCON match

The Portuguese gaffer, who chatted after the final with veteran South African coach, Hugo Broos, touched on his most difficult game at the AFCON.

According to a report from media outlet Brila.net, the 63-year-old commended the Bafana Bafana coach, saying:

"You did very well against us. You were more difficult to play than Ivory Coast. It was a surprise for us [Nigeria] how you played."

The Super Eagles were pushed to extra time and a subsequent penalty shootout by South Africa in the semi-final at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake.

Nigeria ultimately prevailed 4-2 on penalties, with goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, crucially denying efforts from Teboho Mokoena and Evidence Makgopa.

South Africa went on to claim the bronze medal in the tournament, securing another penalty shootout victory against DR Congo, with goalkeeper and captain, Ronwen Williams, once again showcasing heroics from the spot.

Stanley Nwabali Shows off dance moves after AFCON heroics against South Africa: Video

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Reasons Nigeria must retain Peseiro

Sports Brief also previously reported on the three reasons why the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) must retain coach Peseiro.

The former Sporting CP gaffer, whose contract is set to expire shortly, is not without suitors but some believe Nigeria should keep him.

The need for continuity, following the Super Eagles' AFCON silver medal achievement, stands out among the reasons Peseiro should stay.