Former Bafana Bafana coach Augusto Palacios has urged the South Africa nationwide staff gamers to remain calm and centered forward of Tuesday’s high-stakes 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in opposition to Nigeria.
In response to him, although Nigeria have an array of big-name gamers of their staff, Bafana Bafana shouldn’t be intimidated by these names.
Nigeria have already touched down in Bloemfontein with a star-studded squad that includes CAF African Participant of the Yr Ademola Lookman, Premier League stars led by Alex Iwobi, and different high-profile internationals.
Nevertheless, the three-time African champions can be with out Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, who picked up an harm throughout their slender 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo.
For Palacios, although, the names on paper gained’t resolve the match.
“Generally names don’t imply something in soccer, it’s 11 vs 11,” the veteran coach was quoted on South African soccer website Kickoff.
The 73-year-old expressed full confidence in younger defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, believing he has what it takes to marshal Bafana’s backline in opposition to the harmful Tremendous Eagles assault.
“It’s going to be an enormous check for Mbokazi to face a staff of Nigeria’s calibre with massive worldwide gamers, however I consider the boy is prepared. He’s sturdy and assured. He has already performed among the massive video games in Africa, and I consider he’ll do nicely in opposition to any participant that he’ll come face-to-face with in opposition to Nigeria,” he continued.
Palacios, who has performed a key position in creating a number of Bafana stars, additionally reserved particular reward for Lyle Foster, who scored the second objective in Bafana’s 3-0 win over Lesotho final Friday.
READ ALSO: World Cup Qualifier: Bafana Bafana gamers assured as showdown with Nigeria looms
“I pray that he stays injury-free. He’s doing nicely, and that is good for Bafana Bafana.”
He additionally celebrated the progress of Thabiso Monyane, one other of his academy graduates, who lately earned a nationwide staff call-up.
“I’m additionally pleased to see Thabiso Monyane receiving his call-up with Bafana Bafana. Bear in mind, they each arrived once they have been 12 years outdated at my Academy earlier than transferring to Orlando Pirates once they have been 15 years outdated,” stated Palacios.
With South Africa sitting high of Group C and Nigeria chasing qualification, Palacios believes that focus, composure, and teamwork can be Bafana Bafana’s largest weapons in opposition to a star-filled Nigerian facet on the Free State Stadium on Tuesday night.
