In a candid discussion ahead of the crucial tie set to be played at the Stade Felicien in Abidjan on Friday evening, Alex Iwobi shared insights into Nigeria’s strategic approach. Analyzing their opponent’s weaknesses, Iwobi emphasized the team’s determination to secure a spot in the semifinals.”We’ve watched the videos and we will try to see where we can exploit their weakness,” Iwobi disclosed. “We want to qualify for the semifinal but we are aware it will be a tough game, but we are hopeful we can do what we need to do to proceed.”Reflecting on his role alongside teammate Frank Onyeka, Iwobi highlighted the importance of controlling the game through possession. “The role for me and Frank Onyeka is to control the game by keeping the ball,” he stated. “There’s so much quality in the team, but in the end, what matters is playing as a team and winning games.”Acknowledging Angola’s recent goal-scoring prowess, Iwobi expressed respect for their opponents while maintaining confidence in Nigeria’s abilities. “We give all due respect to Angola – they scored 4 goals in the last match,” Iwobi acknowledged. “But we trust in our ability as a team. We have been very good defensively and offensively, and hopefully, we can get the job done on Friday.”AFCON 2023 – QUARTER-FINALSFriday20:00: (1.67) Nigeria (3.50) Angola (5.90)23:00: (2.55) Dr Congo (3.00) Guinea (3.05)Saturday20:00: (3.30) Mali (3.10) Ivory Coast (2.35)23:00: (2.65) Cape Verde (3.05) S.Africa (2.90)***odds are subject to change***Despite the surprises witnessed in the tournament so far, with several prominent teams exiting unexpectedly, Iwobi emphasized the importance of remaining focused and continuously improving. “A lot of surprise in the competition so far with big teams out,” he remarked. “But the main thing for us is to remain focused, analyze our performances, and look into how we can improve. If we continue to do so, I am convinced we can achieve greatness.”Confident in Nigeria’s potential, Iwobi highlighted the caliber of players within the squad and emphasized the collective ambition to excel on the international stage. “We have the quality – guys playing in the EPL, Serie A, and other good leagues,” he affirmed. “We are a young team, and the feeling is we can do better and achieve a lot in the coming years – we just need to do our best and work for our country.” Amokachi hails AFCON evolution as new contenders emergeDrawing inspiration from Nigeria’s past triumphs, particularly the 2013 AFCON glory, Iwobi revealed the team’s efforts to replicate the unity that guided them to success. “We have had discussions about that,” he shared. “Ahmed Musa, who was part of the winning team, has been guiding us on this end. He says it is the unity that guided them all through. We have tried to create the same environment, and we hope we will replicate the success.”With a blend of experience, talent, and unity, Nigeria aims to overcome any challenge on their quest for AFCON glory.
