AFCON: Four Factors That May Work Against The Super Eagles Winning Angolan Team On Friday

– The Super Eagles

By Steven Taiwo

Following their impressive 2-0 victory over arch-rivals Cameroon in the round of 16 of the 2023 AFCON, the Super Eagles of Nigeria are no doubt soaring high and have become a team to watch in the ongoing tournament.

However, their next challenge, the Palancas Negras of Angola, should not be underestimated.

Here are four factors that may work against the Super Eagles from winning Angola on Friday:

1. Angolan’s Resilience:

Angola has defied expectations throughout the tournament. They topped Group D, which included Mali and Mauritania, and then stunned 10-man Namibia 3-0 in the round of 16. This team is clearly not afraid of big names and has a fighting spirit that cannot be ignored.

2. Complacency:

The Super Eagles may be lulled into a false sense of security after their win over Cameroon. They may underestimate Angola, which could prove costly. Coach Peseiro has already warned his players against complacency, but it is a real danger nonetheless.

3. Injuries and Fatigue:

The Super Eagles have picked up some knocks during the tournament, and some key players may be unavailable for the Angola match. Additionally, the players could be fatigued after a long and grueling tournament. These factors could affect their performance on the pitch.

4. Angolan Tactics:

Angola is likely to adopt a defensive approach against Nigeria, looking to hit them on the counter-attack. This could frustrate the Super Eagles, who are used to dominating possession. The Angolans may also try to disrupt Nigeria’s rhythm with tactical fouls and time-wasting.

The Super Eagles are still the favorites to win against Angola, but they face a tough challenge. If they underestimate their opponents or make any mistakes, they could be in for a shock. The Angolans are a determined and dangerous team, and they will not go down without a fight.