With a crucial World Cup Qualifier against Nigeria just around the corner, South Africa’s head coach Hugo Broos insists his immediate focus is not on the Super Eagles, but rather on their upcoming clash with Lesotho.

The AFCON 2023 bronze medalists currently top Group D with six points, and will first face neighbors Lesotho before hosting Nigeria at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein next Tuesday.

Speaking at a press conference in Soweto, Broos stressed the importance of keeping his team grounded.

> “The game next Friday is about a week away and I don’t want to think about Nigeria for the moment,” the Belgian tactician said. “My focus is on Lesotho because I know that is the most important game for the moment.”

Broos emphasized that victory against Lesotho is crucial to avoid future complications in the qualifiers.

> “It is important we get victory against them because if we don’t, maybe we are going to have more troubles in the future. We cannot afford to drop points, otherwise we will be under stress when we play against Zimbabwe and Rwanda in October.”

Despite Nigeria’s star-studded squad, Broos remains unfazed, describing all of Bafana Bafana’s upcoming matches as “must-win.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s preparations are already in full swing. Fifteen Super Eagles players have arrived at training camp in Uyo, including Werder Bremen’s Felix Agu, Nantes’ Chidozie Awaziem, Boavista defender Bruno Onyemaechi, teenage prospect Benjamin Frederick, and goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye.

Both teams will be aiming to solidify their position in Group D, with South Africa keen to protect their lead and Nigeria desperate to close the gap.