Bafana Bafana of South Africa face an uphill task against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the 2019 Afcon qualifying group E tie in Uyo Saturday.
Billed as David versus Goliath battle, Bafana who have never beaten the Nigerians competitively are gunning for an upset akin to the Biblical legend.
At stake is a head start in the race for the group’s single direct ticket to the Cameroon showpiece and the bragging rights.
The tie has all the ingredients of an explosive match. The Super Eagles have been bullish under German gaffer Gernot Rohr and will be looking to atone for missing out on the past two Afcons.
Memories of the 2015 campaign, when the Bafana forced a 2-2 draw in Uyo on the final day to deny Nigeria the chance to defend their 2013 crown will be evoked.
Ogenyi Onazi, who will lead the team in the absence of the charismatic captain John Obi Mikel, is confident in the current crop to deliver.
“I have confidence in the group that we have now and the ambition oozing in the camp. We want to go to the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations. Starting well on Saturday will be key to our aspiration,” the Trabzonspor midfielder told thenff.com.
Kalechi Iheanacho is just one of the star players in the Nigeria’s team. The Manchester City forward boasts seven goals in ten last matches for the Super Eagles.
Also within their rank are forwards Alex Iwobi of Arsenal and Leicester City’s Ahmed Musa.
Bafana just like their Saturday foes, have not been to the Africa’s fooball grandest stage since hosting the 2013 edition, which Nigeria clinched on their doorstep.
They have since changed coaches, returning Staurt Baxter, whom they dismissed when he failed to qualify them to the 2006 World Cup.
At his disposal is a squad of youthful and experienced players whom he hopes will restore the 1996 champions’ pride.
Baxter has commended their strong attitude and motivation to do great things for their country.
“What I have liked about this group of players is their fantastic attitude and energy. You can see this group of players want to do great things for their country and the intent on leaving a lasting impression,” the former Supersport United manager told safa.net.
Some of the players to watch out for in the side include Keagan Dolly, who plays for Montpellier in France, Mamelodi Sundowns pacey winger Percy Tao and veteran Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune.
