AFCON 2023: Super Eagles will fight hard to beat Cote d’Ivoire – Osayi-Samuel

Bright Osayi-Samuel says the Super Eagles will be up for the battle against hosts Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday.

The Super Eagles held the Nzalang Nacional of Equatorial Guinea to 1-1 draw in their opening fixture at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.

Jose Peseiro’s side were the better side in the game but were let down by their poor finishing.

The three-time African champions must now win their next game against the hosts to boost their chances of qualifying for the next round.

Osayi-Samuel was disappointed the Super Eagles failed to beat Equatorial Guinea.

The right-back said the players will give their best to get a more favourable result against the Elephants.

“Honestly of course we wanted to win, it’s a bit disappointing because a big nation like us every game we are expected to win,” said the Fenerbahce defender said.

“If you look at Egypt, how they lost their first game and got to the final last AFCON. So for me I think of course we want to win but we shouldn’t put our heads down too much.

“We have a game in the next four days and I believe in everyone in this team and I think next game will be a reaction.

“I believe that with the squad that we have the game against Ivory Coast we will do our best, when we play against those big teams that’s when we do better we know what it takes and everyone is confident.“