Pedro Goncalves: Angola won’t be star-struck by Nigeria in AFCON clash

But this wasn’t to talk down his side’s chances in a competition where some of the favourites have already been sent packing. 

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He says The Super Eagles deserve credit for being such a prominent side on the African continent and as three-time winners. 

''First of all we respect Nigeria for all that they have achieved in African Football.  Actually, Nigeria is a really powerful team, they have players playing in big nations of football -  with six players in the Premier League,'' said Goncalves.

Goncalves has certainly done his homework on Nigeria. 

''I know, and for sure we have studied our opponents. I guess they have found the best strategy and the best formation to be competitive in the AFCON.''

''They played in 4-3-3 at the beginning of the tournament, then proceeded to play in 3-4-3 with their three center backs - very solid,''  added Goncalves.

Despite speaking so glowingly about the work his counterpart Jose Peseiro has done up to this point with Nigeria, the Angola mentor believes they are not a perfect team and can still be exposed. 

''They also have some issues, this is where we're also looking to create opportunities as the opposition. But we will see, I mean this is a big opportunity for us,'' he concluded.

Goncalves adds that The Palancas Negras have a lot at stake too as they chase a milestone – to surpass their best ever record at an AFCON tournament, which was reaching the quarterfinals in 2010 when they were hosts.