Two times African champions, Nigeria are hoping for a quarter-finals ticket, but Mozambique their Southern African opponents are here for a surprise package.
Mambas’ midfielder Elias Pelembe believes they can send the Super Eagles home and move on to make history.
The Mozambicans have never advanced past the group stage on their three previous outings in 1986, 1996 and 1998; and Nooij is hoping to break the jinx with the Eagles pound of flesh.
“We still have a chance to qualify for the quarter-final. If we beat Nigeria, we will reach the quarter-final. The world has now seen that we play football in Mozambique and against Nigeria, we will again show what we are capable of on the pitch,” said Pelembe.
“Nigeria will have to kill us to send us out at this stage, we shall throw in everything into this match, and it’s all we’ve got left at this stage.”
The tie will be third between the two sides in less than a year but the inspirational performance of the Mambas against defending champions Egypt last Saturday is enough a headache for Amodu and his charges.
The Super Eagles managed a slim victory over the Mambas in Abuja after playing out a barren game in Maputo during the qualifiers, but a lot has changed within the two teams, with the Eagles “disappointing” whilst the Mambas soar.
The Super Eagles will be without captain Joseph Yobo for the tie and there is a growing uncertainty about the availability of striker Obafemi Martins for a game only the maximum points will put their continued stay in the tournament in minimal doubt.
Midfielder Peter Osaze Odemwingie, who played his first game at the Orange Africa Cup of Nations against Benin, last week remains optimistic about his sides chances against the Mambas.
“We lacked confidence against Egypt in our first game but were much more relaxed when beating Benin and I believe we will deliver an even better performance on Wednesday. Mozambique are a team we know having played them twice last year and I am confident we will give our best display so far in Angola, win the match and advance to the last eight“It’s going to be a match we will play with passion and love for our country”’ Osaze a