Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set to renew their football rivalry with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on February 7 at Stade De Bouake, Cote d’Ivoire, at 6:00 p.m. Nigerian time.
The two teams have a history of 15 competitive encounters since 1992. The Super Eagles have emerged victorious in eight of these clashes, while Bafana Bafana claimed two victories, with five matches ending in draws. South Africa secured their spot in the semifinals for the first time since 2000.
Nigeria secured their place in the AFCON semifinals after a hard-fought 1-0 win against Angola in Abidjan on Friday. The Super Eagles eagerly awaited the winner of the quarterfinal between Cape Verde and South Africa.
In the quarterfinal clash between South Africa and Cape Verde, goalkeeper Ronwen Williams emerged as the hero. The match ended goalless after 120 minutes, leading to a penalty shootout. Williams made four crucial saves in the shootout, guiding Bafana Bafana to a 5-3 victory on penalties.
The tournament, which commenced on January 13 in Cote d’Ivoire, will culminate in the final on February 11.