Former Super Eagles Midfielder Ogenyi Onazi Confident About Nigeria’s Chances vs South Africa

• Nigeria and South Africa renew their rivalry in next week's 2026 World Cup qualifier schedule to take place in Uyo
• The Super Eagles will be looking to beat Bafana Bafana for the second time this year following their thrilling victory in the semis of AFCON
• Former Nigeria star, Ogenyi Onazi, believes his country will defeat Hugo Broos' team owing to confidence gained from their previous encounter

Nigeria are preparing for a mouth-watering 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa.

The two nations met at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, and penalties were needed to decide who advanced to the final.

Former Super Eagles midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi, is positive that his country will emerge victorious in Uyo next week.

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The two countries are coming off impressive 2023 AFCON campaigns, and both will be looking for three points when they face off.

In Ivory Coast, the Super Eagles nearly beat Bafana Bafana in normal time, but Hugo Broos' team equalized at the death to force extra time. Stanley Nwabali was the hero in the penalty shootout to help Nigeria reach their first final since 2013.

Fans of both countries were involved in fierce banter on social media before, during, and after the match. When Nigeria lost to hosts Ivory Coast in the final, South Africans trolled them without pity.

Nigeria have the upper hand this time because they are playing in front of their fans.

Onazi on Nigeria vs South Africa

This will be a high-stakes match, especially for Nigeria who are looking for their first win in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

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Lesotho and Zimbabwe held the Super Eagles to frustrating draws. They now find themselves third in the group behind Rwanda and Bafana Bafana.

Onazi believes his country will have no problem beating the 1996 AFCON champions, per Afrik-Foot.

“South Africa is a very tough team, but I am sure we are going to beat them this time around,” the Avezzano midfielder said.

“We beat them at the Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast, and I am sure the boys have the advantage now as they will be confident of their chances."

Onazi understands the rivalry between the two sides.

“South Africa and Nigeria games are always fierce and it is like a local derby. The Eagles will not have it easy, but they will get the win."

Onazi played 51 times for Nigeria and was part of the team that won the 2013 AFCON in South Africa.

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Victor Osimhen ruled out

Sports Brief earlier reported on Victor Osimhen getting ruled out of the South Africa encounter.

The Nigerian striker will be out for four weeks and, therefore, miss Nigeria's matches against South Africa and Benin Republic.