Ivory Coast v Guinea-Bissau predictions for Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations opener. Pitted as the fourth favourites for the title, Ivory Coast is under pressure to begin their journey with a bang. Will they succeed? Read on for all our predictions and free betting tips.
AFCON | Group Stage – Jan 13, 2024 at 8.00pm UK at Stade de Bouaké
Ivory Coast vs Guinea Bissau Predictions
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Ivory Coast vs Guinea-Bissau: Tactical Mastery Meets Resilient Underdogs
Key Stats
– Guinea-Bissau’s Franculino Dju has emerged as a key player with 6 goals in 14 league games.
– Ivory Coast has scored 16 goals in their last three games, showcasing their attacking might.
The Africa Cup of Nations hosts, Ivory Coast, are set to lock horns with Guinea-Bissau in what promises to be an enthralling Group A fixture. The match, scheduled for 8 pm on the 13th of January at the Alassane Outtara Stadium, sees the Ivorians aiming for their third continental crown against a Guinea-Bissau side seeking to cause an upset in only their fourth appearance in the tournament.
Ivory Coast’s Tactical Dynamics
Coached by Jean-Louis Gasset, Ivory Coast boasts a formidable lineup, even in the absence of stars like Wilfried Zaha and Eric Bailly. The squad’s firepower is evident with Borussia Dortmund’s Sebastian Haller, despite his recent struggles, and the midfield prowess of Ibrahim Sangare. Franck Kessie’s exclusion is notable but the team’s overall composition is balanced and robust, with an attacking flair underscored by the likes of Jeremie Boga and Nicolas Pepe.
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This lineup suggests a team that will dominate possession and create numerous chances. Their formidable defence is likely to thwart Guinea-Bissau’s attempts to penetrate, while the midfield’s creative ability will be crucial in setting up opportunities for the attackers.
Guinea-Bissau’s Underdog Spirit
Under Baciro Candé, Guinea-Bissau lacks big-name players but is not short on talent. Franculino Dju is a rising star, and his goal-scoring prowess could prove vital. The team’s overall strategy will likely focus on defensive solidity and exploiting counter-attacking opportunities.
This lineup indicates a team that will rely on quick transitions and the individual brilliance of its young forwards. The midfield’s role in breaking up Ivory Coast’s play and launching counter-attacks will be key to their game plan.
Key Match Deciders
The game’s outcome could hinge on the midfield battle, with Ivory Coast’s Seri and Sangaré playing pivotal roles. The key duel might be between Guinea-Bissau’s Dju and Ivory Coast’s central defenders, which could swing the game.
Pro & Cons of Team Strategies
- Ivory Coast: Strengths lie in their balanced attack and midfield control, but over-reliance on specific players for goals could be a weakness.
- Guinea-Bissau: Their underdog status and counter-attacking ability are strengths, but a lack of experience and depth could be their downfall.
Managerial Critique
While Gasset’s tactical acumen is commendable, Baciro Candé’s conservative approach might be overly cautious. Candé’s strategy, while pragmatic, may not be sufficient to stifle Ivory Coast’s varied attacking threats.
Expected Gameplay
Ivory Coast is expected to dominate possession and press high, while Guinea-Bissau will likely adopt a more reserved approach, focusing on defensive solidity and counter-attacks.
Tactical Analysis and Predictions
- Win-Draw-Way Market: Ivory Coast to Win to nil
- Rationale: Ivory Coast’s superior squad depth and home advantage make them the clear favourites. Their ability to control the game and create scoring opportunities should see them secure a victory and a clean sheet.
- Correct Score Prediction: Ivory Coast 3-0 Guinea-Bissau
- Rationale: Considering Ivory Coast’s attacking prowess and Guinea-Bissau’s defensive vulnerabilities, a 3-0 scoreline in favour of the hosts seems plausible.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Sébastien Haller to Score
- Rationale: Despite his Bundesliga struggles, Haller’s quality is undeniable. Against Guinea-Bissau’s defence, he is likely to find the back of the net at least once.
- Corner Prediction: Ivory Coast More Corners, Total Over 8 Corners
- Rationale: Ivory Coast’s attacking style and dominance in possession should result in more corners for them, and the game is expected to have a total of over 8 corners.
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