Ahead of the Super Eagles of Nigeria’s crucial AFCON 2023 quarter-final clash against the Palancas Negras of Angola, Nigerians have taken to social media to express optimism about the match.
The match, scheduled to be played in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire at 6 pm Nigerian time today, will be the 11th time that both sides will face each other since their first meeting in 1981.
The Super Eagles had earlier qualified for the quarterfinal after trashing Cameroon 2-0 in the round of 16, while Angola secured their ticket following a massive 3-0 win over Namibia.
Taking to social media to express their opinions ahead of the match, Nigerians expressed optimism that the match result will be in favor of the Super Eagles.
@mrlurvy wrote, “Today is a day of revenge. We must repay the Palancas Negras for denying us a place at the 2006 World Cup in Germany. The Eagle must devour the Antelopes today. The Super Eagles must soar to victory 🦅.”
Another user @Ugoccie tweeted, “I am actually rooting for our Super Eagles, hoping they don’t disappoint 🥺🙏🏾.”
“Prayers up for the @ng_supereagles as we go up against Angola today! God that has brought us this far will help us! God will not shame us! Let’s go Super Eagles!” @iamthatpj prayed.
@iamjharmo wrote, “Nigeria Vs Angola fixture in recent times has been a nightmare for the Super Eagles. I just hope we will break the jinx this time. #AfCON2023.”
“Today is the day our Super Eagles face the Antelopes of Angola in a Knockout Quarter Final match at the ongoing African Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, and the Honourable @speakerabbas joins millions of our compatriots in confidence that our Nation will take the day, and the Super Eagles will do us proud as usual… Victory all the way for the Super Eagles! Shall the Eagles begin???” @Legendaryjoe opined.
@SalihuAmumini wrote, “Today’s a day of revenge. Time to settle the score with the Palancas Negras for denying us a spot in the 2006 World Cup. The Eagle must devour the Antelopes. Let’s soar to victory, Super Eagles!”
The winner of Friday’s quarterfinal match between Nigeria and Angola will face either Cape Verde or South Africa in the semifinal.