Nigeria's coach, Jose Peseiro, has made a bold move by sticking with an unchanged lineup for the Super Eagles' highly anticipated quarter-final clash against Angola.
Amidst a cloud of uncertainty, the talented Chippa United goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, will reclaim his spot between the goalposts after recovering from an injury sustained in the thrilling Round of 16 encounter with Cameroon.
The return of Nwabali is undoubtedly a massive boost for the Super Eagles as they set their sights on securing a coveted spot in the semi-finals.
Standing in their way is a resilient Angolan side that has emphatically proven they are no mere pushovers.
Peseiro, evidently impressed with the team's performance against the formidable Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, has decided to maintain faith in the same group of players who delivered a stellar performance in the last game, propelling Nigeria to the quarter-final stage.
The strategic decision to maintain continuity in the lineup showcases Peseiro's confidence in the team's abilities and their potential to overcome the challenges posed by Angola.
With Nwabali's return and Peseiro's tactical consistency, the stage is set for a gripping encounter between two formidable teams.
The Super Eagles aim to soar higher, while Angola look to continue their impressive run.
Super Eagles unchanged from win over Cameroon
With Nwabali’s return, the Eagles' backline will look the same with three centre-backs in Semi Ajayi, William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey.
Ola Aina and Zaidu Sanusi will operate as wing-backs, while the midfield will be anchored by Frank Onyeka with support from Alex Iwobi, who will be the creative spark in the middle.
The focal point in attack will be African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen who will be supported by two goal hero from the Round of 16 game Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon.
Nigeria confirmed lineup vs Angola
- Formation: 3-4-3
- Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
- Defenders: William Troost Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey
- Wing-backs: Ola Aina, Zaidu Sanusi
- Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka
- Forwards Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen
The game will be held at the Stade Félix-Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan from 6pm Nigerian time. It will be live on Supersport and StarTimes premium for Nigerian viewers.
