Super Eagles hold psychological edge over South Africa – Ikpeba

Former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba believes the Super Eagles have a psychological advantage whenever they face South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.

Nigeria will continue their push for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket on Tuesday when they take on the Group C leaders in Bloemfontein.

The reverse fixture in Uyo ended 1-1 after the Super Eagles fought back from a goal down. South Africa top the group with 16 points after seven matches, while Nigeria sit third on 10 points.

Despite the standings, history favors the Super Eagles. In 16 previous meetings, Nigeria have won eight, drawn six, and lost only twice. In the last four clashes, they remain unbeaten with two wins and two draws.

Ikpeba, who never lost to South Africa during his international career, told SuperSport that the psychological pattern often tilts in Nigeria’s favor.

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“Football sometimes is a mindset, it’s a psychological thing, we always have that psychological edge against the South Africans. When you look at the statistics, at the 2019 AFCON the South Africans were very good and they crumbled against us. In 2023 they crumbled again, so that pattern is there,” the 1994 AFCON winner said.

“I think on Tuesday the South Africans will be more under pressure. It’s for them to lose and that makes it more difficult for them against the Super Eagles. They know we have what it takes to beat them. They are beatable, and I hope our boys can exploit that.”

The crucial match will be played at the Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein, with kick-off at 5pm Nigerian time

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