Ivory Coast will be hoping to commence their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on a winning note as the host face Guinea-Bissau in the opening match today at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
Recall that prior to this tournament, the West African side partook in qualifying despite being assured of a spot at the finals, finishing second after ending level with Zambia on 13 points, winning four of their six games (one loss).
However, Ivory Coast have group-stage history on their side, having progressed from that phase in eight of the previous nine times they have played at the Cup of Nations, and they seek to boost their prospects of making it nine in 10 with a strong showing against Guinea-Bissau.
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Picking the maximum points will be the aim of the hosts considering the fact that their next group A opponent will be the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
On the other hand, Guinea-Bissau who on paper may be regarded as underdogs, will be keen to cause an upset in a bid to brighten their chances of qualifying from Group A.
This is Guinea-Bissau fourth appearance at the ​continental showpiece in the past three tournaments.
To achieve any hope of progressing from the group stages, Guinea Bissau must battle the host nation, hoping to frustrate the Elephants and take their counter-attacking opportunities and set-piece chances on Saturday
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