With just a few hours left before Sudan’s Falcons of Jediane confront Nigeria in the semi-final of the 2018 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) today at the Stade de Marrakech, assistant coach Burhaneldin Tia and his charges have already unleashed their war chest and are vying for the West Africans’ jugular.

Sudan, who have met Nigeria on 13 occasions, are beating the war drums in anticipation of today’s clash against African Football giants and if Tia’s yesterday cautionary salvo is anything to go by, then the West Africans will today be in for some long ninety minutes.

After Saturdays’ hard-fought 1-0 quarter-final victory over Zambia, Tia said they will today use the same paintbrush against Nigeria, the very same one used in their victory over the Guinea last week, which was characterised by colours of tenacity, aggression, teamwork and more importantly, the desire to win at all costs.

“We have intensified preparations for the semi-final clash against Nigeria, right after beating Zambia at the quarters. We didn’t beat Zambia due to luck, but because we were better prepared and better team on the day.

“Nigeria is one of the giants of African football and it is always a pleasure to play against such a team. It will be a different game from the previous matches, but we will do our best to emerge victors and advance to the final.

“All the players are in good condition. The positive news is that we have a team of young players, who play collectively and are prepared to go all out to achieve the expected result.

Speaking to Caf Online from their base in Marrakech, Falcons captain Mohammed Taher said that his fellow players are in a charged mood and are determined to play in the final.

“We are determined to carry on with our impressive run at the tournament so far. Against Nigeria will be difficult, and for such games, you have to physically and psychologically ready.

“We are not under any form of pressure. However, we are determined to prove to all that we are not at the semi-finals by chance.”