BY Remi Sulola
The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Falcons of Sudan will on Wednesday face off in the semi-final of the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Both sides are unbeaten so far in the continental tournament.
Nigeria scored two great goals to fight past their Angolan counterparts in the quarter-final showdown on Sunday.
After going a goal down, Anthony Okpotu levelled matters for the Eagles in the 90th minute while substitute Gabriel Okechukwu grabbed the winner in extra time.
Meanwhile, Sudan masterminded one of the biggest upsets of the tournament beating favourites Zambia 1-0 on Saturday to reach the semis.
Saifeldin Bakhit scored the only goal as the Sudanese extended their fairytale run in the competition.
While Nigeria is making her second CHAN semi-final appearance, it is the first such outing for Sudan.
Akram, Abuaagla, Omer, Bakri, Hashim, Saifeldin, Maaz, Samawal, Bashir, Saeed, Nasreldin
Ezenwa, Okoro, Utin, Orji, Eze, Atuloma, Ojo, Oladapo, Ali, Ogbugh, Okpotu
Since November 28, 1963, Sudan and Nigeria have clashed on 13 occasions, with the Eagles winning seven, drawing four and losing two.
Burhaneldin Tia (Assistant Coach, Sudan)
“We have intensified preparations for the semi-final clash against Nigeria, right after beating Zambia at the quarters. We didn’t beat Zambia due to luck, but because we were better prepared and better team on the day.
“Nigeria is one of the giants of African football and it is always a pleasure to play against such a team. It will be a different game from the previous matches, but we will do our best to emerge victors and advance to the final.
“All the players are in good condition. The positive news is that we have a team of young players, who play collectively and are prepared to go all out to achieve the expected result.”
Mohamed Taher (Captain, Sudan)
“We are determined to carry on with our impressive run at the tournament so far. Against Nigeria will be difficult, and for such games, you have to physically and psychologically ready.
“We are not under any form of pressure. However, we are determined to prove to all that we are not in the semi-finals by chance.”
Salisu Yusuf (Head Coach, Nigeria)
“It has been a long journey from the qualifiers, and now we’re in the semis. We are ready to do the job. It is such a great feeling to be in the semis. We are focused and will work hard to reach the final. We made three changes to the last game due to injuries, and some players have been ruled out for Sudan game. Sunday Faleye is out, and we are still assessing Orji Kalu and Eneji Moses.
“We have done well in the tournament so far; played four games, scored six and conceded two.
“My attackers have done well in this tournament and their goals have brought us thus far. The most important is not how many goals you score, but the goal that pushes the team on. We have respect for Sudan, and for them to hold Morocco (tipped as favourites) to a 0-0 draw, means they are a good side. This means we have to work harder. For any team to reach the semis of a major tournament, it means they have done well.
“All four teams at the semis have the potential to win the trophy, it depends on how you make the best of your advantage.”
Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Captain, Nigeria)
“It’s good to be in the semis, and we (as players) know the importance of reaching such a stage in a major competition. We have to put our mindset together to make our country proud. I believe with determination and focus, we can do our best against Sudan.
“Regarding match bonuses, we have been paid. The bonus is in our pockets, and we’re hoping to get more.
“We are hoping for a victory against Sudan to reach the final. If matters arise and call for a repeat of my man-of-the-match performance against Angola (at the quarter-final stage); I will be around to carry the team along.”
The Eagles are going into the clash with a strong attack, having scored six goals in all their CHAN 2018 games so far. On the other hand, Sudan have conceded just once in the tournament.
Therefore, this promises to be a close one which would probably go down the wire. Wednesday’s clash at the Grand Stade Marrakech will kick off 8.30pm.
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