Nigeria vs South Africa: Africa Cup of Nations Semi-Final Preview
Nigeria and South Africa are set to face off in the first Africa Cup of Nations semi-final tonight at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake. Both teams have displayed solid defensive performances throughout the tournament, with Nigeria only conceding one goal and keeping four clean sheets, while South Africa also boasts four consecutive clean sheets, including a penalty shootout victory over Cape Verde. Nigeria secured their place in the semi-finals with Ademola Lookman’s first-half strike against Angola. This is only the second time Nigeria has reached this stage of the competition since their last title win over a decade ago. However, they have lost five of their last six Afcon semi-final matches. South Africa, on the other hand, last reached the final four in 2000.
Can Nigeria break their semi-final curse and secure a spot in the final? Or will South Africa continue their impressive run and secure a place in their first final in 24 years? Stay tuned for all the action and the latest Afcon odds and tips.
Nigeria starting XI: Nwabali, Aina, Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey, Osayi-Samuel, Onyeka, Iwobi, Lookman, Simon, Osimhen
South Africa starting XI: Williams, Kekana, Xulu, Mvala, Modiba, Mokoena, Sithole, Zwane, Mudau, Makgopa, Tau
Team News:
– Star striker Victor Osimhen is fit to start for Nigeria after his injury in the quarter-final.
– Osayi-Samuel replaces Zaidu at left wing-back for Nigeria.
– Both teams are expected to largely stick with the same side that got them into the semi-finals.
Key Things to Know:
– The match will kick off at 5 pm GMT on Wednesday 7 February 2024 at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake.
– It will be shown live on BBC Two, Sky Sports Main Event, and Premier League.
– The game can also be streamed live via the BBC Sport website and iPlayer, as well as the Sky Go app for Sky subscribers.
Prediction:
Nigeria is the bookies’ favorite to win with odds of 8/13, while South Africa’s odds are 13/2. It promises to be an exciting clash between two strong teams.
Stay tuned for more updates on Nigeria vs South Africa Africa Cup of Nations semi-final.
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