BY SAB OSUJI

Chukwuma Akuneto, a former Nigeria international midfielder who now coaches FC Manchester U19s in the United Kingdom, has given his thoughts on Super Eagles 1-0 triumph over Angola in Friday night's quarter final match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations holding in Ivory Coast.

Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock on 41 minute with a cool finish that eventually saw Nigeria through to the last four of the tournament with a semi final date against on Wednesday against DR Congo who saw off South Africa 3-1 in yet another quarter final clash.

Akuneto, a former Enugu Rangers and Stationery Stores midfielder during his illustrious career, spoke to Exclusivenews.com.ng from his base in the United Kingdom, saying the Super Eagles put up a 'professional performance' against the Palancas Negra of Angola.

The UEFA Coaching Licence A holder would equally admit that though the Nigerians did well in the game, he nonetheless pointed out that the Jose Peseiro charges were not 'clinical enough' in the game, inferring that perhaps, if they had been, the scoreline would have been healthier and as well pulled off the pressure on the team as Angola turned on the heat, trying to come back into the game.

"It was a professional display (by the Super Eagles)", Akuneto said.

"But we were not clinical enough", he added quickly.

"I think we Conceeded possession to them and defended a bit 'deeper' which means that the attackers had a longer distance to get to the opposition box when we counter attacked.

"So they (the attackers) easily got tired most times... Maybe our defenders need to step up to squeeze the pitch and support the attackers more before retreating back"

Democratic Republic of Congo will be Super Eagles next opponents as the Nigerians search for a final slot in Africa's most glamorous football showpiece and Akuneto reckons that 'confidence' and self belief' are key for the Super Eagles despite the physical playing style of DR Congo.

"I think our confidence and belief in how we play is growing and DR Congo will be weary and a bit scared as we have experienced players who know how to find a win out of nothing", Akuneto said.