Siasia urges Super Eagles to rely on Lookman's dead-ball skills and Arokodare in WCQ v South Africa

Nigeria remain in contention to qualify for the 2026 World Cup following a hard-fought 1-0 win over Rwanda's Wasps at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday evening.

Wolverhampton Wanderers' deadline day signing Tolu Arokodare emerged as the hero, pouncing on a loose ball to bundle home the decisive goal just five minutes after coming off the bench.

The next challenge for Eric Chelle's side is a blockbuster meeting with Group C pacesetters South Africa, where victory in Bloemfontein's Free State Stadium would reduce the gap to three points.

Speaking on SuperSport after the Nigeria versus Rwanda match, Nigeria legend Samson Siasia said the recent win over the Wasps would give the team plenty of confidence heading into the clash against South Africa.

He noted that although Bafana Bafana currently sit at the top of the group, facing Nigeria has never been easy for them, so they would need to be very cautious.

Siasia stressed the need for Nigeria to have a clear game plan, knowing what to do to secure at least a point or even a victory, though he admitted it would not be easy.

He urged the team to build on their performance, create more chances, and ensure the backline avoided committing fouls, especially as the match would be played away from home.

Siasia added that proper planning would be crucial, highlighting the importance of keeping the ball, winning free-kicks, and giving players like Ademola Lookman opportunities to capitalise on set pieces.

He also pointed out that Tolu Arokodare, who scored the winner against Rwanda, could play a key role in holding up the ball and creating chances.

Bafana Bafana head into the match against Nigeria in great form, having won four consecutive games in the qualifiers for the first since 2002 when they secured five straight victories in the group stage.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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