It’s going to be a battle of two football powerhouses when Bafana Bafana welcomes Nigeria in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier in June. Sport Plus takes a glance at the key players for the encounter that will be played in Johannesburg or Durban.
Bafana are in high spirits and the national team is going through redemption after their third-place finish at the recent AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast. Following that feat, the 1996 African champions played Algeria and Andorra and completed the FIFA Series tournament unbeaten.
Coach Hugo Broos guided his side to a 1-all draw against European minnows, before stunning the Algerians as they played to a thrilling 3-3 stalemate in Algiers.
Bafana: Key Players for the Nigeria Clash
As Broos heavily relied on Mamelodi Sundowns players who are vastly experienced when it comes to CAF interclub competitions and continental football in general, the Belgian will be tempted not to tamper with his team selections.
This publication now explores several players who are capable of matching the Super Eagles who will be eyeing to continue with their dominance over Bafana.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: Percy Tau
The Al Ahly star didn’t have the best of tournaments at AFCON and he was rested for the clashes against Andorra and Algeria. Capped 49 times and boasts 16 goals for Bafana, there is no doubt Broos will not include the Lion King in his squad. Tau is a serial winner with Ahly and his availability will not only boost the dressing room but will also give the West Africans a scare.
Bafana Captain Ronwen Williams:
The Sundowns skipper, Williams is proving his quality as national team skipper whenever he is called to serve. He scooped the Goalkeeper of the Tournament Award after saving four penalties at AFCON. At the same time, this happened for the first time in a tournament under the FIFA banner. The 32-year-old is one of the most experienced campaigners with 43 international caps under his belt.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: Themba Zwane
The 34-year-old creative midfielder is someone who is credited for carrying the hopes of the team. He is someone known for having a big-match temperament and shines when the chips are down. Mshishi netted a brace against Algeria and will hope to produce the same display against the Nigerians.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: Teboho Mokoena
The nippy midfielder was also key for the former African kings when they played the likes of Morocco and Nigeria at AFCON. Mokoena is gaining popularity with his trademark long-range shots. He netted crucial goals for the team at AFCON and his combination with Siphephelo Sithole proved to be a good gamble for Broos.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: Siphephelo Sithole:
Nicknamed Yaya for his burly frame and no-nonsense approach in the heart of the park based on Ivory Coast legend. Yaya Toure, Sithole’s presence for Bafana will bring relief. He was a notable absentee during the friendlies last month. The Portugal-based star is still establishing himself as a trusted soldier for the Southern Africans. Having 12 caps next to his name pushes him to test himself against big guns in the continent.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: Evidence Makgopa
The Orlando Pirates star remains sidelined owing to an injury but Broos will hope to have him back and ready for the qualifiers. Makopa’s height and physical presence will be needed to challenge the lanky Nigerian defenders such as William Troost-Ekong. With his presence still doubtful, Makgopa will also be needed to provide options as he can create the space for the likes of Tau and Zwane.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: Khuliso Mudau:
Another squad member who is not scared of taking on defenders while also focusing on his defensive role is Mudau. Dubbed the best defender in the African continent, Mudau is someone who will be tasked with providing options when it comes to attacking the Super Eagles while also bringing stability at the back.
Related: Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: SAFA Blamed for No Match Ticket Sales