Nigeria coach assess Angola ahead of quarterfinal clash

Nigeria coach assess Angola ahead of quarterfinal clash

Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro has concluded the AFCON is anybody’s tournament to win when asked for his opinion of Angola ahead of their quarterfinals tie on Saturday in Abidjan.

The Super Eagles were convincing against Cameroon in the first knockout round, winning 2-0 courtesy of two goals from winger Ademola Lookman, while the Palancas Negras had dismantled Namibia 3-0 earlier that evening. 

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Peseiro said at this stage of the competition the last eight sides are all capable of going the distance, including Angola. 

''It's a very good team, finishing in the first position. At this moment all the  teams can win this tournament. I want to win but the level is not different,'' said Peseiro.

For some, Nigeria are already the overwhelming favourites in the build-up to this fixture, however Peseiro argues that those who write off Angola, whose best finish at the AFCON is the quarterfinals, do so at their own peril.

''Angola, okay it shows that they are very good performers. But for me - I don't know what people in Nigeria think, if we want to beat Angola, we must do our best,'' added Peseiro. 

Angola could find it hard to predict which Super Eagles side Peseiro will choose depending on his formation. 

The Portuguese mentor has kept his rivals guessing, and he explains why. 

''We played 4-4-2 against Guinea Bissau, we created 12 clear opportunities and won 1 nil. It is my responsibility to do my best, I try to create balance and confidence amongst the players,'' he concluded.

By his own admission, Peseiro adds he’s a coach who prefers to find the best possible solutions for the quality of players at his disposal.