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Africa

Africa: Afcon – Nigeria Vs South Africa: Four Important Must-Win Duels for the Eagles

todayFebruary 7, 2024 2

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The battle for space in the final thirds will be crucial to determining who wins a final ticket when Nigeria confronts South Africa in Bouake on Wednesday

Wednesday’s 2023 AFCON semi-final clash between South Africa and Nigeria promises to be an intriguing encounter, given the distinct playing styles of both nations. Both teams have showcased strong defensive performances, with four consecutive clean sheets and reliance on goalkeepers based in South Africa.

The key to securing victory will depend on which team can effectively create and exploit the half-spaces in the final third, thus breaking through the resilient defence that characterises both sides.

Themba Zwane and Ademola Lookman are likely to emerge as pivotal figures for their respective teams, although the No. 9s, Victor Osimhen and Evidence Makgopa, will play significant roles in determining the outcome of the match.

The four duels the Eagles must win are:

Themba Zwane vs Frank Onyeka

Zwane possesses the skills necessary to break through the Eagles’ defence, but he will face the formidable capabilities and endurance demonstrated by Onyeka, who plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s defensive structure.

In the 1-0 victory over Angola, Onyeka won six out of seven duels, effectively collaborating with Aina on the right flank to neutralise Angola’s most threatening forwards.

Onyeka’s strength lies in his ability to identify potential danger and swiftly address it, while Zwane will aim to exploit half-spaces to deliver passes to his forward line.

Percy Tau vs Ola Aina

Tau hasn’t displayed his usual exuberance in Cote d’Ivoire, but his experience will undoubtedly be a significant asset for Bafana Bafana. The Al Ahly forward typically seeks to cut inside and generate space in the final third, whether for penetrating runs or creating opportunities with passes.