Former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia has urged current manager Eric Chelle to make full use of Ademola Lookman’s set-piece quality and Tolu Arokodare’s physical presence when Nigeria face South Africa today in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Nigeria heads into the match in Bloemfontein on the back of a narrow 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo, where Arokodare scored just minutes after coming off the bench. That result kept the Eagles within reach of Group C leaders South Africa. A win at the Free State Stadium would cut the gap to three points and boost their qualification hopes.
Speaking on SuperSport, Siasia said the win against Rwanda should inspire confidence but warned that South Africa’s form—four straight qualifying victories for the first time since 2002—makes them dangerous opponents.
“We need to keep the ball, win free-kicks, and allow players like Lookman to make the difference. Arokodare can also be important in holding up play and creating chances,” Siasia said.
Limit Mistakes, Take Chances
The 1994 AFCON winner urged the team to maintain discipline, avoid defensive errors, and take scoring opportunities. He stressed that securing at least a point—or ideally all three—will be crucial.
“Facing Nigeria has never been easy for South Africa, but we must have a clear plan,” he added.
Siasia highlighted Lookman’s set-piece threat as a potential game-changer and praised Arokodare’s impact in the Rwanda match, where the striker pounced on a loose ball to score the winner.
“Arokodare’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play can give us an edge. Lookman, on the other hand, can punish them with set-pieces if we win fouls in dangerous areas,” he noted.
While acknowledging Bafana Bafana’s current momentum, Siasia reminded them that history rarely favours them against Nigeria. He insisted that with focus, discipline, and sharp attacking play, the Super Eagles can return from South Africa with a vital result to keep their World Cup dream alive.
