Nigeria-Angola : Experience Versus Momentum

The Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium of Abidjan, will host a blockbuster clash in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d'Ivoire 2023 as Nigeria, lock horns with Angola in the opening quarter-final on Friday, February 2, 2024.
Angola, despite their underdog status, are on a remarkable winning streak, having triumphed over Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and Namibia. However, their biggest test yet awaits; a battle against the Super Eagles, boasting a resolute defense marshalled by William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Semi Ajayi, and a potent attack spearheaded by Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.
Lookman, who found the net twice against Cameroon in the Round of 16, is expected to continue alongside Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze in a probable 3-4-3 formation that has served Nigeria well. Angola, meanwhile, will be without first-choice goalkeeper, Neblu due to a red card suspension gotten in the round of 16 game against Namibia. Nigeria’s first-choice keeper Stanley Nwabali is also uncertain after being stretchered off during the round of 16 match against Cameroon.
Despite Angola’s impressive run and Dala's scoring prowess, the odds on paper stack up against the team. This is because they come head-on against Nigeria that is better placed (42nd) in the FIFA ...