Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi is confident that the team has enough quality to defeat South Africa when both countries clash on Tuesday.
Nigeria face a crucial qualifying match to book a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when they battle Bafana Bafana at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
The three-time African champions are currently third in Group C of Caf qualifying with 10 points, six behind South Africa who top the group.
They have endured a disappointing campaign, but a 1-0 win over Rwanda in their last match on Saturday offered glimpse of hopes.
A win on Thursday makes things interesting in the group and reduces the deficit at the top to just three points.
However, South Africa could still be docked three points by FIFA for fielding an ineligible player in one of their qualifying matches.
A possible point deduction could still make qualification possible for the Super Eagles, but they will need to win their three remaining matches in the group.
What Daniel Akpeyi said about the Super Eagles
Speaking ahead of the crucial clash, the former Nigerian goalkeeper who spent majority of his career playing in South Africa believes the Super Eagles can capitalize on any mistake in the match.
“I’m not scared; I’m not fully convinced by the way Bafana Bafana beat Lesotho. However, the way Nigeria played against Rwanda has motivated many Nigerians”, Akpeyi revealed in an interview before the match.
“Without disrespect, I think it will be tough for Bafana Bafana against Nigeria based on their performance against Lesotho. I’m going to give it to Nigeria.
“Rwanda’s strategy of sitting back and relying on counterattacks made it difficult for Nigeria to secure a win. If it weren’t for Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, those opportunities could have resulted in goals”, he continued.
“But knowing Bafana Bafana, they won’t sit back, which will allow Nigeria to exploit the gaps they leave behind.
“Considering the experience and the age of the Nigerian players, I see Nigeria winning this match tomorrow.”
