African Cup of Nations 2013: Predictions for Group D Openers on Day 4

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at Internationaled.org

Published: January 21, 2013

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The Ivory Coast, which enters the 2013 African Cup of Nations as the favorite, will look to begin its run toward the title with a victory over Togo in the first match of Group D. The other match on Day 4 features Tunisia and Algeria.

It's been a low-scoring tournament in the early going. The tone was set by Group A, which featured two scoreless draws on Day 1. Countries are clearly trying to avoid an early setback, so fans are witnessing a lot of conservative play.

Don't be surprised if that begins to change on Day 4, though, especially with the star-studded Ivory Coast in action. Here's a look at the opening matches for Group D, along with predictions for both, as the final four teams get their Cup of Nations started.

 

Ivory Coast vs. Togo



The Ivory Coast faces a lot of pressure heading into the tournament. Anything less than winning the tournament would be considered a disappointment, and it's a fair expectation given the amount of talent on the squad.

Since the Elephants have no shortage of big names, starting with veteran striker Didier Drogba, they are expected to cruise through Group D. They need to earn all three points against an overmatched Togo side to make that happen.

Tottenham's Emmanuel Adebayor leads the charge for Togo, but his supporting cast shouldn't strike fear into the Ivory Coast. Aside from Adebayor, no player on the Sparrow Hawks has tallied more than six goals at the international level.

Expect the Ivory Coast to come out on the attack from the opening whistle—something that hasn't happened much in the tournament thus far. The Elephants should be able to get on the board within the first half hour and will cruise from there.

Prediction: 3-0 Ivory Coast

 



Tunisia vs. Algeria

Assuming the Ivory Coast takes care of business against Togo, this match is going to take on an...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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