Former Super Eagles shot-stopper, Daniel Akpeyi, believes South Africa’s Bafana Bafana could struggle when they lock horns with Nigeria in today’s (Tuesday) Group C, matchday 8 clash of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Bafana Bafana currently lead the group with 16 points, six clear of the Super Eagles. Both sides head into the encounter buoyed by wins in their previous outings, South Africa defeating Lesotho 3-0, while Nigeria overcame Rwanda.
Recent history favours the Eagles, who remain unbeaten in their last four meetings with South Africa, securing two victories and two draws.
Speaking to KickOff, Akpeyi expressed doubts about Bafana Bafana’s form despite their comfortable win against Lesotho.
“I wasn’t completely convinced by South Africa’s performance,” Akpeyi said. “Nigeria’s display against Rwanda, even though the result could have been better, gave fans confidence. If not for the brilliance of Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, that game could easily have gone Nigeria’s way.”
According to the ex-Kaizer Chiefs keeper, Bafana Bafana’s more open style of play could leave them vulnerable to Nigeria’s firepower.
“They won’t sit deep like Rwanda, and that will create spaces for Nigeria to exploit,” he explained. “With the experience and maturity in the Super Eagles squad, I believe Nigeria will come out on top.”
