Group C of the Africa Cup of Nations presents us with a sensational clash between two of the favourites in the competition – Nigeria and Tunisia. As the 38th and 41st-ranked teams in the world, the three points could go in either direction.
Both Nigeria and Tunisia got off to a flying start in the competition with victories over the much more modest teams of Tanzania and Uganda, underlining their ambitions to win the group or, why not, the entire tournament. Therefore, it is quite likely that the winner of this match will secure first place in the group.
Nigeria reached the final of the competition in 2023 but lost and are still chasing their first trophy since 2013. It is certainly difficult to bet against them, as the team has won seven of its last eight competitive matches.
Tunisia can also boast strong form, having lost only once in their last 10 matches. Their victory over Uganda in the first round was their third in a row, scoring at least two goals in each.
Even this one victory is an improvement on their performance in 2023, when they failed to win a single match in the group stage and were eliminated ingloriously.
How the bookies view it: Nigeria have a minimal advantage
Bookmakers see this match as one of the most competitive in the group stage, with Nigeria as the favourite, but not by much. Currently, you can back Nigeria at 7/5, the draw at 21/10, or Tunisia at 11/5.
Recent head-to-head: Tunisia won for the first time in 20 years
Tunisia has the opportunity to achieve two consecutive victories for the first time in the history of the rivalry between the two nations, which began in 1977 and includes a total of 16 matches.
They won the last match in 2022, but at the same time, it was their first victory over Nigeria since 2004. Historically, they have only four victories over them in those 16 attempts.
Players to watch: Osimhen to get his first tournament goal
Nigeria have one of the strongest squads in the competition, and there are several good options for betting. Victor Osimhen is the obvious choice, as he scored eight goals during the World Cup qualifications. His form is not that great at the moment, but he will be the main threat in front of Tunisia’s goal.
Additionally, you can keep an eye out for Samuel Chukwueze, who had five goal contributions in his last five appearances for Fulham.
Probable line-ups
Nigeria: Nwabali, Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Sanusi, Chukwueze, Ndidi, Iwobi, Lookman, Osimhen, Adams
Tunisia: Dahmen, Abdi, Talbi, Bronn, Valery, Sassi, Skhiri, Mejbri, Saad, Mastouri, Achouri
Anything else catch the eye?
This fixture has the potential to be one of the most entertaining ones for neutral fans, and we believe that backing the goal markets is the best option. Six of Nigeria’s last seven fixtures featured goals from both sides, as well as six out of Tunisia’s last eight.
Moreover, we expect the hosts to go back to their hotel with a reason to celebrate, although a draw is also on the table. The odds allow for the Draw No Bet alternative or a 1X & BTTS. There are plenty of options and the odds are fantastic.
When a price looks too good to ignore, that’s value. Learn how to identify it with our Value Betting guide.
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