AFCON 2023: Kalou Warns that Super Eagles Pose a 'Very Dangerous' Threat
Ex-Chelsea and Ivorian striker Salomon Kalou asserts that the Nigerian Super Eagles have the potential to be a formidable team. The upcoming clash between the two teams is anticipated as the tournament commences in West Africa next month.
Nigeria finds itself grouped with hosts Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau.
The 38-year-old was a member of the Ivory Coast squad that clinched the tournament in 2015.
Speaking to CAF Online, Kalou emphasized the importance of respecting all teams in their group.
He stated, "Firstly, it’s a group composed of very strong teams, starting with Nigeria, which is a formidable side. The Super Eagles consistently demonstrate great potential in each AFCON.
“Equatorial Guinea performed well in the last edition, and Guinea Bissau might be the surprise of the group.
“We need to show respect to all the teams, and most importantly, secure a victory in the first match to commence the competition positively, as that sets the tone for everything.”
In earlier remarks, the Arta/Solar7 forward expressed the country's eagerness to embrace the entire African continent, highlighting that it has been 40 years since they last hosted the tournament.
He stated, “We are thrilled to welcome all of Africa. The anticipation to celebrate football is high. Ivory Coast has a rich football heritage with legends like Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré, Gervinho, and others who adorned the national colors for many years. Hosting this AFCON is a momentous occasion for us, considering the last time we organized this competition was in 1984."
“For a football-loving nation like Ivory Coast, the 40-year gap since we last hosted AFCON feels like an eternity. The excitement surrounding this event is immense. I extend my gratitude to His Excellency the President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara, for the infrastructure developments in place.”
Guinea-Bissau and Cote d’Ivoire are scheduled to face off in the opening match at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on Saturday, January 13. The tournament is slated to run from January 13 to February 11.
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