AFCON 2023: Real Madrid Midfielder Drops Hint on His Support Ahead of Nigeria vs Angola Showdown

• The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final stages continue to take shape
• The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face the Palancas Negras of Angola
• A Real Madrid midfielder has taken a stand ahead of the crunch encounter

The captivating 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to treat fans to another pulsating encounter as old foes Nigeria and Angola renew their rivalry at the showpiece in Ivory Coast.

Both teams, maintaining unbeaten records in their respective group stage matches and effortlessly progressing through the round of 16 with clean sheets, are set to clash at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny on February 2nd.

The upcoming quarter-final promises intense excitement, particularly considering that the Super Eagles have only secured victory twice in nine international meetings against the Angolans, according to data provided by All Nigeria Soccer.

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However as the anticipation mounts for what promises to be a riveting encounter, a Real Madrid midfielder has shown his support for the Palancas Negras.

Real Madrid midfielder's support for Angola

According to a report from media outlet Soccernet, midfielder Eduardo Camavinga has thrown his support behind Angola ahead of the clash against Nigeria.

The 21-year-old French international was born in a refugee camp to parents with Congolese and Angolan roots.

The former Rennes star moved to France at a young age, and in 2020, at the age of 17, he made his debut for Les Bleus, becoming his country's youngest debutant in an official match in over a century.

The versatile midfielder, who provided an assist in Real Madrid’s La Liga win over Las Palmas, showed his support for the Angolan national team by liking several posts related to the Palancas Negras on social media.

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Angola, having secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the ongoing AFCON by finishing at the top of Group D ahead of Burkina Faso and Algeria, are aiming for a historic semi-final berth.

Although it's the third time the Central African nation has reached the quarterfinals, advancing further has proven elusive. A win against Nigeria would mark a record-setting achievement for Pedro Goncalves' side, translating to their best finish at the prestigious tournament to date.

Angola coach hails Nigeria duo

In another report, Sports Brief pointed out that the Palancas Negras of Angola coach, Pedro Goncalves, has singled out two Nigerian players for praise ahead of the meeting between both teams.

The 47-year-old highlighted the qualities of Victor Osimhen and strike partner Ademola Lookman as the deadly force that has propelled the Super Eagles so far.

Additionally, the Portuguese tactician commented on the cohesive defensive efforts of Jose Peseiro's team ahead of their upcoming clash.