The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face Bafana Bafana in a 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024) semi-final clash at the Stade de la Paix, Bouake on February 7.
Before the tournament began, neither team was favoured to reach this stage, but labelled as underdogs, they persevered through adversity to emerge as two of the top four teams in Ivory Coast.
Both teams placed second in their respective groups. However, the Super Eagles edged out Cameroon in the Round of 16 and Angola in the quarter-finals to set up a meeting with South Africa.
Bafana Bafana, on the other hand, secured qualification to the semi-finals by defeating pre-tournament favourites Morocco in the Round of 16 and Cape Verde in the quarter-finals.
What Super Eagles coach Peseiro thinks of Bafana Bafana
Ahead of the highly anticipated clash with Bafana Bafana, Super Eagles manager Jose Peseiro shared his thoughts on the upcoming match.
“We know the power of the opponent, we know they want to win like us, they have confidence, they have good organisation, they want to win AFCON like us but my importance is our team,” Peseiro acknowledged.
His statement highlighted the respect he holds for the South Africans while emphasising the focus and determination within his own team.
“They know they are going to play against a good team; put Morocco, one of the favourites, out 2-0,” he quipped.
Victor Osimhen cleared for action against Bafana Bafana
Victor Osimhen's availability for the upcoming match against Bafana Bafana was in question as he was unable to travel with the Super Eagles team to Bouake yesterday due to doubts surrounding his fitness.
However, there is good news for the Super Eagles as Osimhen has been cleared by the medical team to play in the crucial fixture.
Following the medical clearance, Osimhen has rejoined the team, providing a significant boost to their attacking prowess.
His return will be welcomed by fans and teammates alike, as they look to secure a victory and advance further in the competition.
Peseiro plays down Super Eagles AFCON favourites tag
In outlining the Super Eagles' approach to the upcoming match, Peseiro emphasised a clear and focused strategy.
“We want to play a good match, create opportunities, prevent the opponent from creating opportunities, only that,” he stated succinctly.
The Portuguese manager underscored the importance of maintaining focus and humility.
“Favourite is not in our heads. If it enters our head, it will fly, you understand. We want to put our feet on the ground,” he asserted.
