Hosts Senegal and Nigeria will renew age-long rivalry as they slug it out from 3pm today, in the first semi-final of the U-23 African Nations Cup.
The venue is the Leopold Sedar Senghor Stadium, Dakar, which Coach Samson Siasia has fond memories of, after founding the net in a 2-1 win over Senegal in the opening match of the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations.
He is hoping to guide his players to replicate that feat, 23 years after.
At stake is a place at the final of the tournament, which guarantees the victor one of the three slots for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Host Senegal has been the ‘standout’ side at the championship so far, being the only to have won all three matches at the group phase.
The performance of ‘Les Lionceaux’ puts them slightly ahead of the Nigerians who have been haunted by a leaking defence and questionable second half displays. The two sides shared honours in a 1-1 draw at the group phase during the African Games in Brazzaville, Congo last September, and have been offered another opportunity to settle their scores.
The fact that the winner of the tie automatically qualifies for next year’s Olympic Games makes the tie a dicey one for both sides, with the host seeking to continue their perfect run backed by the support of the teeming home fans.
Senegal Assistant coach, Badara Sarr reckons a tough outing against Nigeria, considered the continent’s torchbearer as far as the Olympic Games are concerned.
“It is an important match for us since it will decide which team qualifies for the Olympic Games. Fundamentally, we hope to win to qualify for the Olympic Games automatically. The match will be played in 90 minutes and we have to be vigilant. We are looking forward to a good display and seal our qualification,” said Sarr.
Captain Azubuike Okechukwu is suspended for the crucial clash, but Siasia is convinced there are equally good replacements to fill the vacuum created by the absence of the Turkey-based defender.
“This game was supposed to be the final. Coming at this time of the competition, there is nothing we can do about it. We have come this far and we want to make sure we qualify.
“It will be a difficult game and both teams have to play well. Our captain (Azubuike Okechukwu) is out, but he is just one person. He has made big contribution to our game and we will miss it. We came here with 21 players, and this is a moment for others to take opportunity and make the best out of it.