By Delphine Sizwe
PRETORIA — Football enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for what promises to be an epic clash in the quarterfinals between two powerhouses, Nigeria and South Africa.
Nigeria’s Journey: Soaring Through the Group Stage
The Super Eagles have soared through the group stage, showcasing their trademark flair and skill. Ahmed Musa and Victor Osimhen have been instrumental in securing crucial victories for the team, and their fans are buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming quarterfinal.
Injury Concerns for Nigeria: Victor Osimhen’s Absence Looms Large
Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen was taken off late in the quarterfinal win against Angola with an abdominal injury and he did not join the rest of the squad in flying out to Bouake on Monday evening.
A team statement assured that he could yet be released to travel on Tuesday if he passes medical checks. Losing the current African Player of the Year would be a big blow to Nigeria, whose attack has been anchored around the striker’s high press and energetic movement. Osimhen has been involved in four of Nigeria’s six goals so far at the tournament, including scoring the lone goal in their opening 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea.
South Africa: Determination in the Face of Adversity
On the other hand, South Africa has experienced a resurgence in form, impressing everyone with their resilience and determination. After a slow start in the group stage, Bafana Bafana rallied to secure a spot in the knockout rounds. As they face the Super Eagles, South Africa is determined to continue their upward trajectory in the tournament.
Social Media Buzz and Pre-Match Tensions
Social media is buzzing with predictions, memes, and passionate discussions about which the team will emerge victorious. The Nigeria High Commission in South Africa has been warned to watch their jubilation should Nigeria defeat South Africa tomorrow. The statement read: “The attention of the Nigeria High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially
inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigerians living in the host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations semi-final match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana on Wednesday, February 7, 2024. “Most of the comments consist of veiled threats against ‘Nigerians cooking jollof rice’ before the match, and ‘showing pepper to Nigerians if the Bafana Bafana lose to Super Eagles,’ among others.
“In this regard, the High Commission at this moment advises the Nigerian community to be watchful of their utterances, be mindful of where they choose to watch the match, especially in public places, and refrain from engaging in loud, riotous or provocative celebrations should the Super Eagles win the match.”
Date, kick-off time and venue
Nigeria vs South Africa is scheduled for a 5pm GMT kick-off on Wednesday, February 7, The match will take place at Stade de la Paix in Bouake.
Where to watch Nigeria vs South Africa?
UK: The game will be televised on BBC Two from 4:30 pm GMT, as well as Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event. The game will also be streamed live on the BBC Sport and player portals.
A clash of cultures, football, and emotions
As the anticipation for the Nigeria vs South Africa quarterfinal peaks, the football world is bracing for an exhilarating encounter both on and off the pitch. With injury concerns for Nigeria and South Africa’s determination to continue their impressive run, the stage is set for a memorable battle between two African football giants.
The post AFCON: Nigeria V. South Africa – Everything you need to know first appeared on The African Gazette.