Nigeria’s hopes for AFCON glory have received a major boost, with a supercomputer predicting the Super Eagles as the favourites to lift the trophy!
Opta’s advanced algorithm, which analyzes team performance and various other factors, has given Nigeria a 28.8% chance of winning the tournament, placing them ahead of previous favorites like Senegal and Morocco, both eliminated in the knockout stages.
This news comes after the Super Eagles’ impressive run in the competition. Despite a shaky start with a draw against Equatorial Guinea, they bounced back with convincing wins against Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau to secure their place in the quarterfinals. The team also defeated the Indomitable Lions of Cameroun with two goals to nil in their last round of 16 games.
This prediction is expected to encourage the Nigerian side whose have displayed defensive resilience throughout the tournament and enjoys a strong attacking force by the African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, Nigeria boasts a potent attack capable of tearing apart any defense.
Coach José Peseiro remains cautious, stating, “We are flattered by the prediction, but it’s just that – a prediction. We must not get carried away; we need to focus on each game and take it one step at a time.”
