This is the match that the world is waiting for in the group stages of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023. The Elephants take on the Super Eagles on Thursday, 18 January in their second Group A matches. Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw by Equatorial Guinea in their opening clash, while Cote d’Ivoire triumphed to a 2-0 victory of Guinea-Bissau.

"Every match is tough, and when you're up against an African team, it's even trickier. But we know we've got the skills to clinch this one," said the Nigerian star, looking forward to this much-anticipated showdown.

"What could make or break the game for either team? Experience and desire. Maintaining the right mindset will always be the key."

"He's eager to iron out his mistakes, and we have hope and confidence in him because we know he's capable of shining in any competition," Okocha commented on Osimhen's goal drought with Nigeria.

"The AFCON is the biggest competition in Africa to crown a team as the continent's champion, an honor that's truly priceless for players. As Okocha put it, 'Nothing is more beautiful than knowing you're an African champion, the best in Africa. For us, it's invaluable.'"