Who will reign supreme at AFCON? Image: People’s Gazette
ICYMI: Nigeria v Bafana Bafana AFCON semi-final PREDICTION
There’s nowhere to hide when Bafana Bafana meet Nigeria for a place in the AFCON final. Who wins it?
Who will reign supreme at AFCON? Image: People’s Gazette
Bafana Bafana face Nigeria on Wednesday with a place in the AFCON final at stake. How will this one pan out? Here’s how things could go down.
STATS: Nigeria’s AFCON squad is ‘1400% more valuable’ than Bafana’s
ICYMI: Bafana legend Benni McCarthy sends message to AFCON class of ’24
Nigeria boast plenty of danger-men
Nigeria got the better of Angola in a tight quarter-final clash. Ademola Lookman was the only goal-scorer on the evening, and the Atalanta man scored a brace against Cameroon in the round of 16. Meanwhile, the directness and pace of AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze will give Aubrey Modiba plenty to think about, if he gets the nod from the start that is. Talismanic striker Victor Osimhen is an injury doubt after suffering an abdominal strain.
ICYMI: Which global star does Bafana midfielder Mokoena resemble?
AFCON: Three Nigerian danger-men for Bafana to fear
CRACKER: What time does Nigeria vs South Africa kick off?
GOALKEEPERS COULD BE KEY
Ronwen Williams made history with his penalty-shootout heroics against Cape Verde, saving four spot-kicks to see Bafana through to this stage. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Chippa United keeper Stanley Nwabili (a rumoured target for Kaizer Chiefs), has kept four clean sheets in the tournament. The Super Eagles haven’t conceded since the tournament’s opening day in a 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea. Williams has kept three shutouts for South Africa. Needless to say, a single goal could sway this grand occasion.
SUPER EAGLES vs BAFANA: Predicted starting XIs
BENNI: 10 things you didn’t know about the South African legend
Prediction
A low-scoring affair seems the likeliest outcome, given the stature and form of both goalkeepers and defensive units. It wouldn’t be a shock to see this one go all the way to extra time and penalties.
** Please note that this prediction doesn’t represent the views of The South African but rather those of the author.
Where will you be watching this titanic clash and where do you think the match will be won and lost? Let us know in the comments.
Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game.
Also, follow The South African on X for up-to-the-minute news updates.
