By Seyi Babalola
The Bafana Bafana of South Africa are on the verge of booking their spot at the 2026 World Cup, having topped their group with 13 points, 6 points ahead of the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Nigeria is due to play South Africa in September, although the exact date and time of the fixture have yet to be confirmed.
The game will be on matchday eight of the CAF qualifying section, after their home meeting with Rwanda and before their campaign concludes in October against Lesotho and Benin.
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The Super Eagles of Nigeria will be hoping to redeem their hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, especially when they take on the Bafana Bafana.
Daily Sun sheds light on the 5 top Bafana Bafana players who may hurt Nigeria’s World Cup qualification ambition.
1. Ronwen Williams
If there is one person who has contributed hugely to South Africa’s run of form, it is their goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams.
After an impressive form during the AFCON tournament, Williams has been magical in front of goal, having kept a clean sheet since then.
He equalled South Africa’s legend Andre Arendse’s record of four clean sheets at the 1996 AFCON on home soil.
2. Teboho Mokoena
The midfielder is considered a maestro in South Africa’s central midfield.
He demonstrated his skill against Nigeria in their last outing, with his penalty kick equalising Nigeria’s goal and pushing the game into extra time.
Mokoena’s passing and sharp shooting could potentially dismantle the Super Eagles’ defence.
3. Percy Tau
Tau is a key player in the South African squad. His speed and eye for goal were crucial in their last encounter with Nigeria.
4. Sphephelo Sithole
The Tondela player is another midfielder to watch against the Super Eagles.
Often paired with Mokoena in the centre of the park, he made a crucial shot from outside the box against Nigeria at the last AFCON that could have been decisive.
Sithole is expected to be a significant threat to the Nigerian defence with his dynamic play.
5. Khuliso Mudau
Mudau was highly rated during South Africa’s last game against Nigeria, and it is expected that the defender will continue his strong performance.
His defensive prowess could pose a challenge to Nigerian attackers such as Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.