On Friday, the Super Eagles of Nigeria take on Angola in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal match with the goal of making it to the competition’s semifinals for the first time in five years.
In their most recent encounter, Nigeria overcame longtime rivals Cameroon 2-0 to secure a matchup with the Angolan Palancas Negras in the round of eight. In contrast, the South Africans advanced to this level of the competition by crushing Namibia 3-0.
The Super Eagles began the AFCON on a weak note by drawing Equatorial Guinea before narrow victories over hosts Cote d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau. Nevertheless, with seven points, they advanced to the knockout stages. However, they have improved in the competition.
The opponents on Friday impressed even though they had the same amount of points. The Angolans defeated Burkina Faso and Mauritania to win Group D after drawing Algeria, the 2019 winners.
Team News
Good news for the Super Eagles ahead of the match: goalie Stanley Nwabali, who was carted off after the victory over the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, is available for selection. This was verified by the team’s media officer, Babafemi Raji, in an interview on Friday.
Coach Jose Peseiro had stated that there is no need for concern even if the Chippa United player is unfit.
“Before a decision is made, Stanley [Nwabali] will undergo a late fitness test today. In a Thursday pregame press conference, Peseiro stated, “If not, I will play Francis [Uzoho].” “I am confident in all of my players, especially Ojo Olorunleke.”
Head-to-head record between Nigeria & Punch
Nigerian supporters are still upset at losing their 2006 World Cup ticket, despite the fact that both teams have faced off 11 times prior to the quarterfinal match. Head-to-head rule allowed Angola to qualify for the competition before the Super Eagles.
In the games played against the Palancas Negras, Nigeria has won twice and drawn twice, while Angola has triumphed twice over the 2013 champions.