Sierra Leone, currently placed third in Group A of the Cote d’Ivoire 2023 African Cup of Nations qualifiers, is determined to cause an upset in the group by defeating Nigeria. Despite the Super Eagles’ strong squad, Sierra Leone believes they can replicate Guinea Bissau’s surprise victory over Nigeria earlier in the qualifying series.

Ismael Dumbuya, a striker for the Leone Stars, expressed confidence in their ability to turn the tables and secure a win against Nigeria. A victory would reignite Sierra Leone’s hopes of qualifying for the 2023 African Cup of Nations.

However, captain Steven Caulker is a doubt for the match due to injury. Nigeria, aiming to secure their place in the finals, will face Sierra Leone fully aware of Guinea Bissau’s likely victory over Sao Tome and Principe. The previous encounters between Sierra Leone and Nigeria have been closely contested, with Sierra Leone coming back from a 4-1 deficit to draw 4-4 in the last qualification campaign. The match will take place at the Paynesville Stadium, with Nigeria eager to qualify early.

The referee for the match will be Mahmood Ali Ismail from Sudan, assisted by Mohammed Abdallah Ibrahim and Liban Abdourazak Ahmed, both from Djibouti. Gambia’s Bakary Jammeh will serve as the commissioner, and Kokou Djaoupe from Togo will be the referee assessor.