Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, anticipates the Super Eagles’ semi-final clash with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, expressing familiarity with the opposition due to his stint at the South African club.
Nwabali, quoted by thenff.com, foresees an intriguing encounter in Bouake, highlighting the personal significance of facing familiar adversaries.
Having conceded only once in five games in Cote d’Ivoire, Nwabali’s confidence adds to the narrative of the 15th full international level meeting between Nigeria and South Africa.
With seven wins for Nigeria in the previous 14 matches, including five draws and two victories for South Africa, Wednesday’s game carries historical weight.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s head coach, Hugo Broos, fueled by the desire to reach the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final, acknowledges the Super Eagles as favorites.
Despite Nigeria’s past successes, Broos, who led Cameroon to victory in the 2017 AFCON, believes in his team’s potential to upset Jose Peseiro’s men.
Reflecting on South Africa’s journey to the semifinal as a special moment for their football, Broos emphasizes the unpredictability of the upcoming clash.
Notably, the Super Eagles have a history of success against South Africa, with a 2-0 victory in the 2000 AFCON semi-final and a 2-1 win in the 2019 edition’s quarter-finals hosted by Egypt. The stage is set for another chapter in their football rivalry.