As the anticipation builds for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semifinal clash between Nigeria and South Africa, Super Eagles Team Coordinator, Patrick Pascal, has assured that the team will not underrate their opponents.
Pascal conveyed the team’s mindset, stating that they will approach the match with the intensity of a final, without relying on past results or any perceived advantage over South Africa.
“We will go all out for victory because we are hungry to win the cup again. By the grace of God, we shall wrap up the game during regulation time,” Pascal asserted, drawing from his experience as a former Super Eagles utility player and Olympic gold medalist. “We don’t want the game to go into extra time or a penalty shootout. The idea is to settle the game within 90 minutes.”
Acknowledging the strength of the South African team, Pascal highlighted their recent performances against Morocco and Mali as evidence of their quality. He emphasized the importance of disrupting their cohesion and understanding through strategic gameplay, noting that the technical crew has meticulously analyzed their style to devise a winning strategy.
Regarding Victor Osimhen’s availability for the match, Pascal provided reassurance, stating that the reigning Africa footballer of the year has been cleared to play. Osimhen, the Napoli striker, has joined the team’s camp in Bouake and participated in training with his teammates on Tuesday evening in preparation for Wednesday’s semifinal encounter. The Nigeria Vs South Africa 2023 AFCON semi-final match will take place on Wednesday, February 7, 2023 by 6pm (WAT).
