It is no longer news that Super Eagles will not be facing Cote d’Ivoire in a friendly next month.
On Friday, the Nigeria Football Federation announced that Algeria have replaced Cote d’Ivoire after the Ivorian FA claimed “internal problems” has stopped them from honouring a clash against the Super Eagles.
However, investigations have now revealed that the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire rather preferred to take on 2018 World Cup semifinalists and world No 1 Belgium and not the Super Eagles, who are ranked 29th in the world.
The Belgium vs Cote d’Ivoire clash will is scheduled for October 8 in Brussels.
Cote d’Ivoire actually are a last-minute replacement for New Zealand, who pulled out because of strict Coronavirus restrictions.
Belgium coach Roberto Martinez was excited with the prospect of battling the Ivorians.
“It is a team with strong individuals of the highest level and who are currently performing very well such as Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace) and Nicolas Pépé (Arsenal),” he said.
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“It is also a perfect sparring partner for our first international period in which we have three matches.”
This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago
