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When South Africa and Nigeria clash at the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final on Wednesday, February 7, Bafana Bafana will be looking to end the Super Eagles’ dominance.

In this fixture, the West Africans have had a rather easy outing against the South Africans, and a semi-final clash in Ivory Coast offers them a chance to seek revenge.

In 2000, both nations met at the semis in Lagos, and the Super Eagles emerged as 2-0 winners.

The former AFCON champions have met 14 times over the years, with Nigeria winning seven games, five ending in draws, and Bafana Bafana winning two.

Bafana Bafana are under Hugo Broos, a coach who led Cameroon to the 2017 title, and Helman Mkhalele, a member of the 1996 AFCON-winning squad.

On the other hand, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are the Super Eagles’ top stars who carry the aspirations of the nation on the pitch.

Coach Broos’ take

Broos admitted that his boys have performed against expectations and has lauded the players for the belief they have in themselves.

“Many people in South Africa didn’t believe in this team, but we believed, and the players believed in themselves.

“Reaching the semi-finals is great for South African football, which has struggled in recent years,” the Belgian said.

He is confident that Bafana Bafana will be ready for their game on Wednesday.

“The semi-final will be tough against Nigeria’s great players, but we have nothing to lose now. The players will recover and prepare, but staying focused is essential,” he added.