AFCON: Six players to watch in Nigeria, Angola clash

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will be taking on the Palancas Negras of Angola later today.

Both teams have been impressive. However, only one of them would make it to the semi-final of the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) by the time the referee blows the final whistle.

In this piece, we take a look at three players from each team to watch in today’s game which comes up at the 40,000-capacity Peace Stadium in Bouake by 6 pm.

 

Victor Osimhen

The Napoli forward has been instrumental in the current success of the Super Eagles. Although he has not replicated his goal-scoring form so far, with just a solitary goal in the competition, he has been a shining light for the Eagles. His deft passes led to Ademola Lookman’s first goal against Cameroon, and he has been a major influence on the team. The 2023 African Footballer of the Year will hope to continue this impressive form later today.

 

Mabululu

The striker has been living up to expectations at the AFCON. He already showed that his six goals scored at his club, Al Ittihad, is not a fluke as he has already inspired the team by scoring and providing assists during Angola’s match against Namibia.

 

William Troost-Ekong

The stand-in captain for the Super Eagles has been at the forefront of the defence, standing up for the team whenever necessary. Troost-Ekong has been indeed rock-steady from his decisive penalty spot taken during the match with host Ivory Coast to his incisive passing, ball clearance, and precise tackles. William Troost-Ekong has no doubt has been living his dream and making an impact at the AFCON.

 

Fredy

Fredy’s three assists have played a crucial role for the Palancas Negras. He is expected to bring his wealth of experience to bear during today’s game. At 33 years old, no doubt, experience has never been Fredy’s problem.

 

Ademola Lookman

Since his debut for Nigeria over a year ago, 2023 AFCON seems to have given Lookman the right platform and chance to shine. With his dazzling two goals in the last match remain etched in the memory of football fans, more good performances are expected of the winger. At just 26 years old, the Udinese winger hopes to step up his game later today.

 

Dala

With four goals scored, Dala is already the joint top scorer at this year’s Afcon. Since debuting for Angola over eight years ago, the Al-Wakrah attacking midfielder has netted twenty times. The Super Eagles of Nigeria defender should look out for this terrific player.