By Francis Ajuonuma
Three-time champions, the Super Eagles of Nigeria have been drawn in Group A of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals fixed to hold in Cote D’Ivoire from January 13 to February 11 with 24 teams competing for the converted trophy.
The draw ceremony which was held on Thursday September 12, 2023 in Abidjan, the Ivorien capital grouped the 2013 champions alongside hosts, Cote D’ Ivoire, Guinea Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea to battle for a place in the round of 16.
Cote ‘D Ivoire will kick off the group opener on 13 January with a match against Guinea Bissau, while the Super Eagles will begin their title campaign in the group’s second match against Equatorial Guinea.
While Group B will feature Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde and Mozambique, Group C has defending champions, Senegal, Ghana, Guinea and Gambia.
Algeria, Burkina Faso, Mauritania, and Angola are drawn in Group D. And in Group E, Tunisia, Mali South Africa, and Namibia will slug it out for the top two postion, while Group F will feature Morocco, DR. Congo, Zambia, and Tanzania.
READ ALSO: Usman faces dangerous Chimaev as he attempts to relaunch career
The top two teams at the conclusion of the group stage will progress into the round of 16, alongside the best four third-placed teams in the group stage.
Speaking at the draw ceremony, CAF President expressed optimism that the world will witness the best of African football. “The facilities here in Ivory Coast are of world standard, expect the best of African football,” he said.
