AFCON 2023: 5 South African players capable of ending Super Eagles‘ AFCON title ambitions

South Africa defeated Nigeria 2-0 in Uyo the last time the Super Eagles hosted the Bafana Bafana

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will be in action on Wednesday when they take on South Africa in the semi-finals of the AFCON 2023.

The Eagles will go into the tie as overwhelming favourites, thanks to their perfect record of three wins in three games at the AFCON against South Africa.

For this to be achieved, the three-time AFCON winners must be at their very best, as South Africa have shown that they can cause an upset.

Ahead of the big encounter in Bouake, here are five players who are capable of ending the Eagles’ hopes of reaching a first final since 2013.

PERCY TAU

The Al Ahly Star is no stranger when it comes to playing against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

The diminutive playmaker was part of the Bafana Bafana side that defeated the Eagles in Uyo, during the first leg qualifiers for 2019 AFCON.

Tau got his side’s second goal as they won 2-0 and recorded their first-ever competitive win against Nigeria.

Also, in the second leg tie in Johannesburg which ended 1-1, Tau provided the assist for South Africa’s equaliser.

At this year’s tournament, Tau showed his mental strength as he stepped up to convert from the penalty spot in South Africa’s 4-0 win against neighbours Namibia.

He had initially missed from the spot after blasting his effort over the bar in his team’s 2-0 loss to Mali.

So, if there is one player who deserve a lot of attention it’s definitely Tau as he has shown in past encounters what he is capable of in past meetings with Nigeria.

Yamoussoukro, COTE D IVOiRE – FEBRUARY 3 South Africa during the TotalEnergies Caf Africa Cup of Nations Afcon 2023 match between Cape Verde and South Africa at Stade Charles Konan Banny Stadium on