Nigeria vs South Africa: 3 Bafana Players Finidi George’s Super Eagles Must Pay Keen Attention to

• The Super Eagles of Nigeria will slug things out with South Africa in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers
• The fixture comes with an iota of retribution for Bafana Bafana, given the circumstances surrounding their AFCON exit
• Sports Brief spotlights three South African players who could play an integral part in securing victory for Hugo Broos’ team

Another episode of what is fast becoming a crunch rivalry is upon us, as the Godswill Akpabio Stadium is set to host the Super Eagles of Nigeria as they slug things out against South Africa.

This encounter holds significant weight, particularly for Bafana Bafana, as it not only presents an opportunity to reignite their qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but also serves as a chance for redemption after their defeat to the Nigerian team in the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

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Coach of the South African team, Hugo Broos, has adopted a strong stance in the build-up to the match and in a recent interview captured by OwnGoalNigeria, the septuagenarian emphasised his keen preparation ahead of facing the Nigerian side.

With the much-anticipated fixture looming, Sports Brief spotlights three Bafana players who could potentially unsettle the Super Eagles.

South Africa players set to cause Nigeria havoc

Rowen Williams

The Mamelodi Sundowns' goalkeeper has been nothing short of a revelation for the South African team.

The 32-year-old shone brightly at the AFCON and was rightfully awarded the goalkeeper of the tournament.

Williams' ability to come up clutch in crucial moments has been significantly integral to the successes recorded under Coach Broos.

The former Supersport United shot-stopper will fancy his chances against a Nigerian attack lacking one of its most prolific stars in Victor Osimhen.

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Williams also boasts of immense distribution with his feet, which could aid possession and attacking play for South Africa.

Percy Tau

The skilful attacker is another Bafana star poised to wreak havoc against the Nigerian team.

The 30-year-old enters this fixture with an underlying sense of revenge, particularly following his lacklustre outing against Nigeria at the AFCON.

The Al Ahly star is currently one of the best players plying their trade on the African continent, and was recently named the Interclub Player of the Year by Africa's football governing body, CAF.

The former Brighton forward was on target the last time South Africa claimed victory against Nigeria in 2017.

Teboho Mokoena

The highly versatile midfielder has proven to be the metronome for Coach Broos' side.

The Mamelodi Sundowns star serves as a reliable outlet to create chances and attacking threats for South Africa.

Mokoena's versatility also translates to his effectiveness in both initiating and thwarting attacks during the course of a game.

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The midfielder found the back of the net the last time both teams met at the AFCON, and the 27-year-old will be looking to replicate this feat come game day.

Nigeria vs South Africa midfield battle

Sports Brief in another report highlighted the crucial midfield battle that could decide the outcome of the clash between Nigeria and South Africa.

The qualification clash is expected to feature a flurry of midfielders, as both teams have recently adopted a three-man defensive approach.