Pedro Gonçalves, the head coach of Angola’s national team, has admitted that facing Nigeria in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament will be a tough challenge.

Despite the difficulty, he expressed confidence in his team's ability to beat the Super Eagles and advance to the semi-finals. Gonçalves emphasized the significance of the match for Angola, stating that it is an opportunity for the team to showcase its worth on the African stage.

“This match means a lot for our team and for the entire Angolan nation, which has dreamed for years of seeing the team at this stage of the competition. We will face Nigeria, a great nation in African football... This match is an opportunity to show our worth; we have worked and given our all to reach this level of the competition. I congratulate my team, which has always been dedicated. The match is an opportunity to show that we have evolved,” coach Pedro Gonçalves said.

He continued, "We respect Nigeria for what they have demonstrated so far in African football. Currently, Nigeria has a very strong team with players who play in major European leagues, such as the Premier League and Serie A... They use the best playing system to compete in this Africa Cup of Nations."

He acknowledged Nigeria's strong football presence but highlighted his team's dedication and evolution.

The quarter-final clash between Nigeria and Angola is scheduled for a 5 pm kickoff on Friday, February 2.