The three-time African winners are the favourites to progress to the final of the 34th edition of the continental championship
South Africa must produce another excellent performance similar to the one they gave against Morocco to overcome Nigeria on Wednesday, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Bafana Bafana were the underdogs when they traded tackles with the Atlas Lions – the number-one ranked team on the continent and 2022 World Cup semifinalists – in the second round of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
But second-half goals from Makgopa and Mokoena fired South Africa to a memorable victory and passage into the quarterfinals.
After edging past Cape Verde on penalties in the Round of 8, South Africa are underdogs again as they face Nigeria in the semifinals.
Bafana Bafana stars admit the clash against the Super Eagles will be a tough one, and they both agree that only an excellent display will be required to get the better of the three-time winners.
“Another tough encounter,” Kekana said, as per Soweto Live.
“Nigeria are another good team with good players. I think this game will need a lot from us… a lot of digging and a lot of analysis. We can’t wait to play, so I think it’s going to be a good game to watch.”
Modibo added: “We are ready for the task ahead. It is going to be a very tough encounter because they have been doing well in this tournament, and their defence is very good.
“We just need to apply ourselves well so that we can win the game. If we are being honest, everyone thinks they are the favourites, so it’s going to be a tough one for us.”
Nigeria’s semifinal tie with South Africa is scheduled for the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, Ivory Coast, on Tuesda6 pm6pm Nigerian time).
