The 2023 African Cup of Nations taking place in Ivory Coast has been a tense affair between the giants of African football and underdogs who are rising up to the challenge of upsetting the favourites.
Results from the group opening matches have so far shown that the so-called minnows of African football have what it takes to fight the giants to a standstill or even move one step further by claiming their scalps.
Apart from the host, Ivory Coast who was able to beat Guinea Bissau 2-0 in the opening match on Saturday, every other giant that played on Sunday either drew or lost their matches against their less fancied opponents.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria, despite parading a star studded team of European based players played a 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea. Surprisingly, the Nigerians have to come from a goal down to savage a point from the encounter.
Iban Salvador handed the Elefantes the lead in the 36th minute after a defensive mix-up presented him with a chance which he dispatched expertly.
Current African Football of the Year, Victor Osimhen drew his side level within minutes after connecting with a delightful cross by Ademola Lookman and planting a sublime header inside the net.
The Super Eagles had other chances to pick up maximum points but were denied by goalkeeper Jesus Owono and his resolute defense. Both teams have to settle for a draw much to the disappointment of the Nigerians.
The Pharaohs of Egypt were very lucky to pick up one point against Mozambique in their group opening match. The Egyptian had taken the lead in the 2nd minute of the match and were expected to demolish their less fancied opponent.
However, two quick fire goals from Mozambique in the 55th and 58th minute turned the match in their favour. The underdogs were very close to securing a win before Mohammed Salah scored a 96th minute penalty to snatch one point for his side.
The Black Stars of Ghana started their own campaign with a shocking 2-1 loss to Cape Verde. The much fancied Ghanaians went behind very early in the match and had to work themselves ragged before managing to get back on level terms in the second half.
However, they were handed a sucker punch in injury time when Cape Verde struck again to hand their much fancied opponent a defeat that leaves them with a mountain to climb in order to secure qualification from the group.
The tournament continues today as the likes of Senegal, Cameroon and Algeria will be in action later today against teams which many will consider as underdogs in such encounters.
