Super Eagles star with 21 caps branded as Nigeria’s weakest link before South Africa clash

South Africa head into a decisive World Cup qualifier against Nigeria with former Orlando Pirates midfielder Thabo Mngomeni urging Hugo Broos’ men to show no fear, Soccernet.ng reports.

Bafana Bafana top Group C with 16 points, six clear of the Super Eagles, and victory in Bloemfontein on Tuesday would leave them within touching distance of the 2026 finals. Yet Mngomeni insists the players cannot afford to be intimidated by Nigeria’s pedigree.

The clash pits two former AFCON champions against each other in what has become one of African football’s fiercest rivalries. Both sides head into the encounter on the back of wins: Nigeria edged Rwanda 1-0, while South Africa brushed aside Lesotho 3-0.

Mngomeni believes South Africa can tilt the balance by targeting a vulnerable spot in Nigeria’s defence: goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

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The 29-year-old, who now has 21 caps after making his debut for the Super Eagles at AFCON 2023, has endured a torrid season at Chippa United, who sit bottom of the PSL table.

What has been said of Nigeria’s Nwabali?

“The players shouldn’t feel intimidated by Nwabali,” Mngomeni told KickOff.

“Look where Chippa are on the log table – at the bottom. If Bafana players are seeking motivation, they should remember that Nwabali is the same goalkeeper they score against week in and week out in the PSL.

Mngomeni added, “Bafana players can't let themselves be intimidated by Nigeria playing at home in South Africa.

“If that's the case, what will we do at the World Cup next year against big nations? At this stage of their careers, they can't afford to be intimidated.”

Bafana Bafana have never beaten the Super Eagles on South African soil, with Nigeria winning eight games, losing two and drawing six in the overall head-to-head record.

Still, Mngomeni insists South Africa have the required weapon in their armoury to hunt the Super Eagles in Bloemfontein.

“They must attack Nigeria. It comes down to motivation,” Mngomeni said.

“Believe in yourselves. I don't want to think about losing tomorrow because it could be the end for us. We really need this win; it will set us on the right path. Losing will be devastating for me. Even a draw won’t help us. We need a win.”

The Free State Stadium is expected to be packed for what many see as the group’s decisive tie. With only a handful of qualifiers left, the result will shape the path to North America 2026.