AFCON 2023: Five things we learned from Nigeria’s victory over Angola

The Super Eagles claimed a well-deserved win against Angola, and they can care to dream

The Super Eagles qualified for the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations following a 1-0 victory over Angola at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny on Friday, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Sabre Antelopes played well and created some chances, but they failed to utilize their opportunities. Ultimately, Ademola Lookman’s goal did the trick for Jose Peseiro’s men.

Soccernet.ng picks five points that we learned from the game.

 

AFCON has humbled Nigerian fans

Ordinarily, Nigerian fans would have been angry that the Super Eagles laboured against Angola, but with the way the AFCON has progressed, Nigerian fans have been humbled.

This AFCON has seen many surprises, and as it stands, even if Sao Tome and Principe give the Super Eagles a tough time, most fans would appreciate the team.

 

Nwabali’s discovery is one of Peseiro’s big wins

Going into the AFCON, Many Nigerian fans were skeptical about the goalkeeping department, but Nwabali was discovered just days before the tournament, and he has taken over. The Chippa United star made two big saves to keep Nigeria in the game.

Peseiro has met the target in his contract

Following the expiration of Peseiro’s contract last year, there were talks that he was going to leave, but the NFF gave him a short contract, and the semi-finals of the AFCON was his target.

However, with his win over Angola, he has met his target, and he could even get an extension.

Our front three have gelled 

Our front three did not start the tournament well, but they seem to have grown a good level of understanding, and that came into play in the goal that won Nigeria the win.

Kelechi Iheanacho may not play in this AFCON 

Leicester City star Kelechi Iheanacho is yet to kick a ball at this AFCON, but it is not because he has issues with Peseiro. It is because he can not function as well as the other strikers in the 3-4-3 formation.

Peseiro has clearly shown a preference for Osimhen and Paul Onuachu as the top nine, and he has stuck to a solid midfield rather than a creative one. For Iheanacho to play, Peseiro would have to tweak his setup, which is unlikely.