In a clash that promises to ignite the pitch with intensity, Nigeria face Angola in the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, with both teams eyeing a path to continental glory.
Angola, riding high on confidence after dispatching Namibia, Burkina Faso, and Mauritania, must now confront the formidable challenge posed by the three-time AFCON champions.
Both sides have adopted a similar tactical approach in the tournament, favouring low blocks, yielding possession to the opponent, and seeking opportunities on the counter.
However, as they square off against each other, one team must seize the initiative, and all signs point to Nigeria asserting their style on the game.
Here is the probable Nigerian set-up that can wrestle victory from the grasp of Angola:
Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali, the epitome of composure and charisma in the goal for Nigeria, is expected to undergo a late fitness test to maintain his pivotal role.
His presence bolsters the defence and instills an extra layer of confidence in the Super Eagles.
In the event of Nwabali’s absence, Francis Uzoho stands ready as the likely replacement.
Defence
Nigeria, known for their recent deployment of a 3-4-3 formation, may shift to the traditional 4-3-3 against Angola.
In defence, Semi Ajayi’s excellence and William Troost-Ekong’s commanding presence make them the preferred center-back pair.
Ola Aina, one of the AFCON’s standout wing-backs, is poised to replicate his performances at right-back, while Calvin Bassey stakes his claim as Nigeria’s top left-back, earning the nod over Zaidu Sanusi.
Midfield
Control of the midfield becomes pivotal for Nigeria, and the duo of Alhassan Yusuf and Frank Onyeka has displayed the mettle to dominate against Angola.
With Yusuf returning from injury and Onyeka in prime form, the midfield combo promises to dictate the pace and influence the outcome.
Alex Iwobi assumes the role of orchestrating Nigeria’s attack, adding another layer to the Super Eagles’ strategy.
Attack
Despite a modest goal tally in Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria boast the most fearsome attack in the tournament.
Victor Osimhen, the reigning Africa Footballer of the Year, leads the charge.
Osimhen, hungry for more goals, partners seamlessly with Ademola Lookman, who delivered a memorable brace against Cameroon.
The third attacking spot presents a dilemma, with Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze facing scrutiny.
Expect Chukwueze to start, capitalising on his trickery and counter-attacking threat.
Overall, the Super Eagles must enter the quarterfinal clash against Angola with a calculated game plan, ready to demolish the Palancas Negras and march one step closer to AFCON glory.
Probable lineup
Nigeria (4-3-3): Nwabali; Aina, Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey; Onyeka, Yusuf, Iwobi; Lookman, Chukwueze, Osimhen
