AFCON 2023: Angola defender says Palancas Negras must play without fear against Nigeria

Palancas Negras of Angola central defender Kialonda Gaspar insists they must play without fear when they face three-time African champion, Nigeria in an AFCON 2023 quarterfinal game Friday at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, in Abidjan

Speaking to the press about Friday’s game, the 26 year old who plays for Estrela de Amadora in the first tier (Liga Portugal) in the Portuguese league recognizes the capacity of the Nigerians, but adds that Angola also has its strenghths.

‘The greats of football were once small and if Angola wants to grow it should not fear facing teams like Nigeria’, said Gaspar who was named Man of the match in the victory over Burkina Faso (2-0) in a group stage game in Yamoussoukro.

Gaspar says that the Palancas Negras are focused and are working towards making history by reaching their first semi-finals.

Gaspar has attracted interest from clubs such as FC Porto (Portugal), Lille (France) and CSKA and Baltika (both from Russia) following his impressive displays at the ongoing AFCON 2023.