AFCON 2023: Arsenal Legend Names the Attribute of Osimhen That Could Hurt Ivory Coast in Final

• The final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is on the horizon
• Nigeria’s Super Eagles face off against host nation Ivory Coast
• An Arsenal legend has sent a warning message to the Ivorian team

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is poised to thrill fans to another enthralling spectacle, as Nigeria’s Super Eagles and host nation, Ivory Coast, slug things out in the final at the Stade Alassane Ouattara.

Having crossed paths earlier in the competition during the group stages, both teams are now gearing up for a rematch with much greater stakes on the line.

Amidst the mounting excitement and speculation surrounding this clash, members of the Ivorian national team, including star striker, Sebastien Haller, and midfielder, Franck Kessie, have dubbed this encounter as a chance for redemption.

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Nonetheless, as the tension builds with each passing moment, a former Arsenal standout has pinpointed a key attribute of Nigeria’s prolific forward, Victor Osimhen, which could pose a significant threat to the Ivorian side.

Arsenal legend on Osimhen’s attribute

In an interview with BBC World Service, former Arsenal defender, Kolo Toure, shed light on an attribute of Osimhen that could spell trouble for Ivory Coast.

The 2015 Cup of Nations champion remarked:

"He's an incredibly powerful player with unbelievable speed. Although he's only scored one goal so far, his impact on the team is immense.

"The way Nigeria operates in a 5-4-1 formation makes them particularly dangerous on the counterattack. Osimhen's ability to exploit space is crucial in this setup.

"For Ivory Coast, having speed in defence is paramount because they're likely to dominate possession. This was evident in their previous encounter.

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"When Nigeria gain possession, they'll immediately look for Osimhen's runs into space due to his remarkable pace. Ivory Coast must be prepared to anticipate and match his speed."

The 42-year-old’s insights serve as a rallying call to Les Elephants, especially given Osimhen's pivotal role in Nigeria's victory during their last encounter.

However, with the tactics of new coach, Emerse Fae, still unknown, Toure's analysis injects an additional layer of anticipation into what promises to be a riveting encounter.

CAF president on Nigeria hosting the World Cup

In another report, Sports Brief touched on the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, discussing Nigeria's potential to host the FIFA World Cup.

The 62-year-old expressed confidence in the ability of the West African nation to host the global event.

Motsepe also emphasised his intention to discuss the possibilities with the country's president.