Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-01-30 03:53:15
Nigeria’s Head Coach José Peseiro has cautioned his Super Eagles to stay composed and manage the euphoria of their quarter-final qualification as they gear up for a challenging last-eight clash against Angola’s Palancas Negras on Friday. According to the Portuguese gaffer, it is crucial that the players remain fully aware that the team has not won anything yet. He emphasized that complete concentration and consciousness are necessary ahead of their evening encounter at the Stade Félix Houphouet-Boigny.
Peseiro pointed out that the farther the team progresses, the tougher the competition becomes. He stressed that while they have won three out of four matches, it is essential to remain level-headed as they move forward. He highlighted the team’s philosophy, stating that in the Africa Cup, there are no small teams and any team in the last eight is a strong contender for the trophy. Peseiro expressed his belief that the team is capable of winning the trophy, provided they continue to work hard and give their best on match days.
The Negras achieved a 3-0 victory over Namibia’s Brave Warriors in the Round of 16, with Gelson Dala scoring a brace against their regional rivals at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake. On-field captain William Ekong acknowledged that the upcoming match against Angola could prove to be the most challenging yet for the Eagles. He emphasized that there have been no easy games in the tournament and that the team must remain alert throughout and make the most of the chances they create.
Winger Moses Simon also expressed the team’s readiness for a difficult game against Angola, similar to the challenges faced in their previous matches against other strong opponents.
Peseiro shared his perspective. He stressed the importance of the team’s philosophy and their potential for winning the trophy. Angola have a few scores to settle against Nigeria, most notably when they edged Nigeria to reach the last round of qualifiers for the 1990 FIFA World Cup finals in Italy. The intense rivalry between the two teams makes Friday’s match all the more intriguing and the Super Eagles will be looking to make their own mark in this historic face-off.
