AFCON 2023: Is Angola’s Pelancas Negras a walkover for Nigeria? Former Super Eagles ace has his say

The Pelancas Negras have been one of the most exciting teams to watch in Cote d’Ivoire, and they will be out chasing history against the Nigerians

Former Nigeria international Ifeanyi Udeze has cautioned that Nigeria’s quarterfinal clash with Angola will not be a mere walk in the park for the Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports.

Nigeria are set to face Angola’s Pelancas Negras for the first time in tournament history at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire on Friday, February 2.

To secure their spot in the quarter-finals, the Jose Peseiro-led Nigerian side triumphed over Cameroon 2-0 in the Round-of-16, following a second-place finish in Group A.

Nigeria navigated the group campaign in style with victories against Cote d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau, coupled with a draw against Equatorial Guinea.

On the other hand, Angola, maintaining an unbeaten streak at the AFCON, drew 1-1 with Algeria and secured victories against Mauritania and Burkina Faso to top Group D.

In the Round of 16, they convincingly defeated Namibia 3-0, achieving a historic third consecutive win in AFCON history.

A win against Nigeria in this quarter-final would mark a significant milestone for Angola, as it would propel them into the AFCON semi-final for the first time.

Former Super Eagles and West Brom left-back Ifeanyi Udeze emphasises the magnitude of the challenge, stating,

“Angola is not a walkover because they have shown what they can do in this tournament,” the former left-back said on Brila FM.

“I have played against Angola in the past and whenever they play Nigeria they always put in everything.

“The Eagles should approach the game against Angola just like the way they did in the game with Cameroon.”

The head-to-head record between Angola and Nigeria stands at two wins for each team and five draws, setting the stage for an intriguing battle on the pitch.