The Super Eagles of Nigeria will trade tackles with Angola in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals on Friday in a bid to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2019.
The clash at the Felix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan is the opening match of the AFCON last eight.
The Super Eagles dealt with arch-rivals Cameroon 2-0 at the same venue in the round of 16 to reach the quarter-finals.
As three-time AFCON winners, Nigeria are a bigger side on paper.
Super Eagles of Nigeria
The Eagles have Victor Osimhen, recently crowned African Player of the Year, leading the attack along with the in-form Ademola Lookman. They also boast the meanest defence, having conceded just once.
Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen
However, Angola will be full of confidence after surprisingly topping Group D unbeaten. This is their first quarter-final since hosting the 2010 tournament.
Angola AFCON 2023 Squad
Led by star striker Gelson Dala, who netted twice against Namibia, Angola have one of the most potent attacks at AFCON 2023 with nine goals in four games.
Angola star striker Gelson Dala
Dala has warned Nigeria: “We will fight and make life hard for them. With our fans, we believe we can win.”
Angola coach Pedro Gonçalves added: “We respect Nigeria but fear nobody. The pressure is
Super Eagles Coach Jose Peseiro
on them as favourites.”
Angola coach Pedro Goncalves
Nigeria boss Jose Peseiro expects a tough test: “Angola are unpredictable with some very dangerous players. We cannot underestimate them.”
This AFCON has been full of surprises, and another could be in store on Friday if revitalised Angola can defy the odds and giants Nigeria.
The kick-off for Nigeria vs. Angola is scheduled for 17:00 GMT.
