Victor Osimhen’s Nigeria is set to maintain their impressive run at the Africa Cup of Nations as they face South Africa in the upcoming semifinal clash on Wednesday. Meanwhile, hosts Ivory Coast will square off against the Democratic Republic of Congo in what promises to be a thrilling encounter after a remarkable journey to the last four.

Nigeria stands out as the tournament’s strongest side, boasting the reigning African footballer of the year leading their frontline and a solid defensive strategy implemented by coach Jose Peseiro.

Following a 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their opener, Nigeria has secured four consecutive victories without conceding a single goal. Coach Peseiro emphasized the importance of a solid defense after the quarter-final triumph over Angola, where Ademola Lookman’s goal secured a 1-0 victory.

South Africa as the Underdogs

Nigeria, aiming for a record 15th Cup of Nations semi-final, faces South Africa at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake. This encounter recalls the 2019 quarter-final in Egypt, where the Super Eagles secured a 2-1 win, thanks to William Troost-Ekong’s late goal.

Despite failing to qualify for the last AFCON in 2022, South Africa, under veteran Belgian coach Hugo Broos, has made a comeback to the big stage. Their journey to the semi-final included a penalty shootout victory against Cape Verde and victories over Morocco, the continent’s top-ranked team.

Broos acknowledged Nigeria’s improvement and expressed that the match serves as a unique test for both teams, considering their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.