Senegal, the defending AFCON champions, lock horns with Ivory Coast, the host nation of the AFCON 2023, in a battle of warriors tonight at exactly 20 hours GMT. In tournaments like this, big games between two previous winners do not follow form and pedigree but the will to play and win. The home fans will rally around the host, who sneaked into the last 16 as one of the best third-placed teams.
However, Senegal provided Africa and the world with a convincing set of group game performances to merit a spot in the first knockout stage of the AFCON. Should Senegal have a good day, today will be the end of the journey for Ivory Coast, who have been poor and non-impressive after the first game at the AFCON.
Senegal vs Ivory Coast: AFCON 2023 Head-to-Head, Prediction and Facts
Recent form analysis of the two teams shows a coin with two diverse sides.
Senegal is in good form, having won all three of their AFCON matches. They have scored eight goals in their last three matches and conceded one en route to the last 16.
Ivory Coast are in inconsistent form, having won 1 and lost 2 of their Afcon group matches. They have only scored two goals in their last three matches and conceded five en route to the last 16.
Clearly, Ivory Coast is not scoring; however, they leak heavily at the back, and a good game plan by the technical team of Senegal can be humiliating for Ivory Coast.
A head-to-head analysis puts both teams on the same level of performance at this stage.
- The two teams have met six times in the last 10 years, with Senegal winning 1 and Ivory Coast winning 1 and 4 draws, respectively.
- Their last meeting was in January 2023, when Senegal won 1-0.
Other factors to consider in making a near-accurate prediction of the outcome of this encounter.
- Senegal are the defending champions and will be looking to retain their title.
- Ivory Coast is the host nation and will have a home advantage.
- A single goal could decide the game, which is likely to be close.
READ: Dr Congo in AFCON Quarterfinals After Beating Egypt 8-7 on Penalties
What is the final Senegal vs Ivory Coast: AFCON prediction? For The Round Of 16?
Based on the analysis above, Senegal are the slight favourites to win the match. However, it is a close call, and Ivory Coast should not be underestimated. A scoreline of 2-0 to Senegal is a possibility.
Unless a miracle unfolds, this could well be curtains for the hosts.
Senegal to win, 2-0.