South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has claimed that Nigeria’s Super Eagles are wary of facing his improving Bafana Bafana side ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifier next month footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria will first face Rwanda on 6 September before flying to Bloemfontein to meet South Africa three days later in a match that could shape Group C.
Bafana currently top the group with 13 points, six clear of the Super Eagles, who have won just once in six games.
Broos, who has overseen South Africa’s resurgence, believes his players no longer fear the three-time African champions.
“They don’t like to play against us, that I know because we became a better team, so it’s up to us to take advantage of that and not start doubting and be afraid of Nigeria,” Broos said.
“Why should we suddenly start to be afraid of Nigeria? I don’t see any reason. If we go for it and play at our best level, we can win against Nigeria … we can also lose because it’s football and you’ll never know.”
The Belgian tactician has reason for optimism. Under his guidance, South Africa have drawn both of their last two meetings with Nigeria.
At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, Bafana held the Eagles 1-1 after extra time before losing on penalties. Months later, the sides again played out a 1-1 draw in Uyo during the World Cup qualifiers.
Nigeria, however, remain confident. Despite a stuttering campaign, they have lost only once in 14 competitive meetings with South Africa. Victory in Bloemfontein would revive their qualification hopes and silence any talk of fear.