The much anticipated tie between the Bafana Bafana of South Africa and Super Eagles of Nigeria will go down this evening in Uyo.
Just as Nigerians look forward to a crunchy affair with hopes of getting maximum points, it is important to note that the visitor have caused some upsets in the past particularly in 2015 when they stopped the Eagle’s from qualifying for the African cup of nations.
Many have not recovered till date as the country also failed to making it to subsequent continental competitions at the senior level till date. Nigerians are hurt!
Well, since the new gaffer Gernot Rohr took over as the Technical Adviser of the national team, the Eagles are yet to lose a game though the South African tie would be his first AFCON qualifier match while he looks forward to World Cup Qualifier tie against Cameroon in August.
Having enjoyed a fantastic outing in their recent world cup qualifiers and friendlies, it is important for the Eagles to thread with caution in a bid to avoid a repeat of what transpired on the same turf two years ago. Whoever gets the nod to start the game for the Eagles, must as a matter of fact be at his best especially those who might be getting their debuts for the senior team. As they say, there is always a first time, but we hope the day goes good for the lads.
While we await the team list of the Super Eagles, Stuart Baxter has named his starting line-up to execute the game from the regular goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune mans the post while the back four will consist of Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Tebogo Langerman, Erick Mathoho and captain Thulani Hlatshwayo.
The midfield will be made up of Dean Furman, Bongani Zungu, Themba Zwane and Keagan Dolly while Sibusiso Vilakazi and Tokelo Rantie will spearhead the attack.
Baxter has made it clear that the boys have come for some real business. Kick off time is 5pm Nigerian time inside the Godswill Akpabio Stadium also known as Nest of Champions.