By Omotosho Victor Fiyinfoluwa( SIWES student, Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti)
As AFCON 2023 progresses in Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria emerges as the frontrunner following the elimination of Senegal and Morocco.
The Opta supercomputer predicts Nigeria with a 28.8% chance of claiming the trophy, setting the stage for an anticipated quarterfinal clash against Angola on Friday.
The Super Eagles’ impeccable performance, earning maximum points without conceding since their opening draw against Equatorial Guinea, has propelled them to the forefront of the tournament.
Mali closely follows as the second favorite with a 14.7% chance, while the host country, Ivory Coast, holds the third spot with a 13.5% likelihood of winning.
The predictions also spotlight DR Congo and Cape Verde as fourth and fifth favorites, respectively, with South Africa ranking sixth after defeating Morocco in the round of 16.
The quarterfinal fixtures promise gripping matchups, with Nigeria facing Angola and other exciting games on the horizon. Football enthusiasts can anticipate thrilling encounters as the tournament unfolds.