Head coach of the Palaças Negras of Angola, Pedro Gonçalves has revealed that he voted for reigning African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen as his FIFA The Best Player of the Year 2023.
Gonçalves was speaking ahead of his side’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter final clash with Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Friday night in Abidjan.
He says his side have huge respect for the Nigerian side, especially with the quality individuals they boast of.
“Nigeria are a dangerous team. They have players playing in big nations of football and they have up to five to six players in their starting lineup in England, two in Italy. I voted for one of those players as the best player in the world last year, Victor Osimhen,” Gonçalves told press men on Thursday.
While the Angolans enter into Friday’s game as the top scoring side left in the competition having scored nine goals in four matches, the Nigerians on the other hand have the best defence having conceded just one goal in same number of games.
Gonçalves admits his utmost respect for the Super Eagles and Osimhen but states that his side see Friday’s game as a big opportunity to make a name for themselves and their country.
He continued: “First of all, we respect Nigeria for all that they have achieved till now in African football.
“I know them and for sure we have analysed our opponents. I guess they’ve found the best strategy and formation for being competitive in this AFCON as they progressed in the tournament.
“We will see but it is a big opportunity for us. An opportunity of a lifetime. We are proud to get to this level but that pride brings more responsibilities and the motivation for the game. So, tomorrow, all the power, thoughts and the strength of millions of Angolans will be on the pitch.”
Friday’s game is scheduled for the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium, the venue of Nigeria’s last two games in this edition of the tournament and it is slated for 5pm local time, 6pm in Nigeria.
