LUANDA (FIBA Africa Champions Cup Women 2017) - Angolan side Primeiro de Agosto will be up against First Bank of Nigeria in the first Semi-Final on Saturday at the ongoing FIBA Africa Champions Cup Women 2017.

Jaime Covilha's side is desperate for a place in the Final and a possible third African trophy just like they won it two years ago at home in Luanda but the "Elephant Girls" stand in their way to achieve this feat. 

The 54-year old Angolan tactician is fast to admit that this will be a difficult encounter because First Bank is a strong side that is also chasing their third African crown. 

"First Bank is a very good team because they have three-point shooters and forwards who play well in the paint."- Covilha 

Rosa Gala will need to be on top of her game when she comes up against Dominique Wilson, her opposite number on the First Bank side, a high scoring point guard who is averaging 17.6 points per game - the highest at the tournament so far and this battle alone could go a long way in determining the fate of both teams. 

Ivorian center Minata Fofana will find her match in Primeiro de Agosto forward Leia Dongue while First Bank veteran Chioma Udeaja will have to tame Alicia DeVaughn in a paint rivalry that is expected to produce fireworks. 

Speaking exclusively to FIBA.basketball, Covilha said, "First Bank is a very good team because they have three-point shooters and forwards who play well in the paint. They have good balance as a team. It will be difficult for us to play defense on them."

"We have to play very well if we are to win this game. It will be very difficult but we shall do our best to win."

First Bank head coach Peter Ahmedu is also cautious about this encounter and highlighted that focus throughout the game will be necessary if his side is to emerge victorious.

He said, "There is no doubt that it is going to be a very tough game. We hope to win it. My players and I know that the last time this tournament was held in Luanda, Primeiro de Agosto won the trophy so we must come out in full force, make less mistakes and hope to win and go to the Final."

FIBA