One-time African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba has described Bafana Bafana of South Africa as “stubborn” and as such the Super Eagles have to step up to beat them in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo next month.
“South Africa will be stubborn as we saw at the last AFCON,” warned Ikpeba.
“They have a lot going for them and are no longer intimidated by Nigeria.
“The Super Eagles have to therefore step up to beat them in Uyo.
“It won’t be an easy match, but Nigeria have the players to win.
“This is a game of their lives and Finidi (George) has to get them to win this match.
“We have to support the team to get the job done.”
The forthcoming clash in Uyo will see both teams keep faith with the core of their squads from the AFCON in February, when they produced a thrilling semifinal that had to be decided on a penalty shootout.
Wilfred Ndidi and Victor Boniface, who missed the AFCON due to injury, have returned to the Super Eagles.
South Africa have been boosted with the return of striker Lyle Forster, who featured this past season in the Premier League with Burnley.
The highly-rated striker last played for South Africa in October and he stayed out of the AFCON to treat mental problems.
