In the wake of their triumphant 2-0 victory over Cameroon on Saturday, the Nigerian national football team returned to the training grounds on Monday to prepare for their upcoming quarterfinal showdown against Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
Following a day of well-deserved rest on Sunday, the Super Eagles commenced their on-field preparations, fueled by the prospect of securing a coveted spot in the AFCON semifinals for the second time in the last three editions of the tournament.
Angola, making their third appearance in the quarterfinals of the AFCON, pose an interesting challenge for the Super Eagles.
The Pelancas Negras are determined to advance to the semifinals and face a Nigerian squad that has showcased defensive solidity throughout the tournament.
The Super Eagles, under the guidance of head coach Jose Peseiro, have been a defensive force to be reckoned with, conceding only one goal in four matches and keeping clean sheets in three games.
However, a cloud of uncertainty looms over the team as they await a medical update on goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Nwabali, a key pillar in Nigeria’s robust defence, sustained an injury midway through the second half of the victory over Cameroon.
The medical staff is diligently assessing the extent of the injury, and his availability for the crucial clash with Angola remains uncertain.
In the event that Nwabali is unable to recover in time, coach Peseiro may turn to Francis Uzoho, the initial preferred first-choice goalkeeper until Nwabali’s late arrival. The decision will be pivotal as the Super Eagles aim to maintain their defensive resilience against Angola.
Aside from Nwabali, there are no other injury worries as star man Victor Osimhen, two-goal hero Ademola Lookman, midfield general Frank Onyeka, and other stars came out of the Cameroon tie without any major discomfort.
Nigeria’s meeting with Angola on Friday is the first between the two at the AFCON, adding an element of unpredictability to the quarterfinal clash.
However, history reveals that the two teams have faced off nine times in other competitions, with each side claiming two victories and five matches ending in draws.
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Super Eagles should not underrate the Angolans. They might turned out to be giants killers. Medical team should work on Nwabali to be fit for Friday clash please. For now, he is better than Francis. Peseiro should stick to his winning team.