AFCON 2023: William Troost Ekong Discloses Secret to Nigeria’s Solid Defence Ahead of Angola Clash

• Nigeria are having a great AFCON tournament
• They are in the quarter-finals and will play Angola later this week
• William Troost-Ekong has shed light into Nigeria's secret to their solid defence

Nigeria are stepping up their preparations for their quarter-final clash against Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Defender William Troost-Ekong is impressed with the Super Eagles' defensive stability throughout the tournament.

The three-time AFCON champions have conceded just once in the competition but are facing a free-scoring Angola side on Friday, February 2.

The only goal Jose Peseiro's side conceded came in their opening game against Equatorial Guinea. Iban Salvador scored the goal for the Nzalang Nacional, per BBC.

On Friday, they will face a dangerous Angola side that has scored in every game in Ivory Coast so far. The Palancas Negras will pose some serious questions to the Nigerian defence, and it remains to be seen if they will live up to their reputation.

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Troost-Ekong on Nigeria's defence

Speaking to Sports Brief, Troost-Ekong believes the team spirit and the commitment to go the extra mile have helped the Super Eagles become a better team defensively.

"It's a team effort, we are working very well to reduce the opportunities as much as we can. You see, from the strikers to the midfielders and defenders, everybody is working in sync. We have a very good team spirit, and everybody is ready to work really hard. The coach has done well to put us in a formation that everybody is enjoying to play but we are also flexible. Everyone is willing to sacrifice."

Few teams have threatened the Super Eagles' defence in Ivory Coast, but things may get more challenging as the tournament progresses.

Angola's Gelson Dala scored four goals in the tournament, while Mabululu scored three. The two forwards were on target in the Round of 16 against Namibia, per CAF.

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Angola coach praises Nigeria's forwards

Sports Brief also previously reported that Angola coach Goncalves praised two Nigerians ahead of the clash between the two nations in the quarter-finals.

The 47-year-old emphasised the exceptional qualities of Victor Osimhen and strike partner Ademola Lookman, who have combined to be a potent force.

Angola coach Goncalves also commented on the cohesive defensive efforts displayed by Jose Peseiro's team in preparation for the upcoming clash.