AFCON 2023: Alex Iwobi explains diminutive midfield role in Nigeria’s title quest

As Nigeria set their sights on overcoming Angola’s Palences Negras at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on Friday, attacking midfielder Alex Iwobi has admitted that the encounter will be tough in Abidjan.

The Fulham forward has featured prominently in all matches, with three starts and a crucial appearance off the bench in the win against Guinea-Bissau.

The 27-year-old is fully aware of the formidable challenge Angola presents in their quest for glory at the tournament and he elaborated on his responsibilities, highlighting the collective effort and tactical discipline instilled by Peseiro.

“We’re trying to see where to explore to see where their weakness is,” he said during press conference.

“As the coach said, it’s a game where both teams want to go to a semi-final and it will be tough. It was a bit different last time out as we scored two goals but we’ve been defending well too.

“So, it’ll be a hard game but hopefully, we do what we need to do to break into their half. I’ve been told to manage and keep the ball for my team.

“They don’t really need much from me when they’re creating up-front. There’s Chukwueze, Moses, Lookman, and Victor who can do that so we have a lot of creativity.

“I and Frank have been told to control the game as much as we can, and first of all, to defend as a team. I’m trying to do my job for the team.”