The Super Eagles of Nigeria will be clashing with the Palancas Negras of Angola in the first quarter-final clash of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast with the hopes of securing a place in the last four.
The Nigerians, who are the highest ranking team left in the competition will be going up a very dangerous Angolan side who are coincidentally the lowest ranking team left in the continental football competition.
While the Super Eagles dominated and defeated the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon 2-0 to secure their place in the last eight, the Palancas Negras thrashed Namibia 3-0 to advance into this stage of the competition.
Though the Super Eagles are huge favourites against the Angolans, they will be wary of the giant killing spree that has become a dominant feature of the Continental football competition when they face the Angolans later today.
Nigerians across the world will be hoping that the Super Eagles will be able to capitalize on the early exit of the top teams and lift a trophy which they last won in 2013.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles and Fulham FC of England Midfielder, Alex Iwobi has expressed the team’s desire to remain focused on their target in the competition.
He said “Both teams want to qualify for the semi-final. For us we have to attack and defend well as we have done in previous games. We want to qualify for the next stage of the competition,
“It’s important for us to respect them. To get to this stage of the competition is a great achievement for them. They are a very good side with quality players.
“We have kept three clean sheets since the first game which is good for the team and has scored goals as well.
“We must fight to win the game. All of us must give our best on the pitch.”
Also, Angola forward, Gelson Dala has warned the Super Eagles to brace up for a difficult test in Friday’s quarter-final clash at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
He said “We will fight and make life hard for them. With our fans, we believe we can win.”
The match will be taking place at the 53,000 capacity Felix Houphouet Stadium in Abidjan by 6:00 PM Nigerian time.
