Bafana Bafana legend Jabu Mahlangu has explained why he believes Nigeria will be an easier opponent than Cape Verde as Bafana prepare to take on the Super Eagles on Wednesday.
South Africa collected a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Cape Verde in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw on Saturday night.
Verde dominated the encounter, enjoying 52% of ball possession and made an impressive 26 attempts at goal with just two shots finding the target. In this regards Bafana were more efficient, landing 6 shots on targets from their 16 attempts.
Mahlangu took to social media platform Instagram to give his assessment of the opposition.
"It was a tough game, Cape Verde gave us a good show as well. They showed up and put us under pressure.
"I know they (Cape Verde) dominated the game. Most of the game they dominated ball possession," Mahlangu said.
"But they were not really too dangerous or whereby they were putting Ronwen or our defence under pressure. Although at some point in the game, we were defending far too deep. We were allowing them to put pressure on us (Bafana). I hope we can improve on that."
Well done to Bafana Bafana and shout out to captain fantastic, Ronwen Williams. ???? Whatever happens from here boys, I'm super proud of you ????????????????#AFCON2024 pic.twitter.com/0WCwummRID
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Next for Bafana semi-final encounter against Nigeria, who have conceded just one goal and have not lost a single match so far in the competition. The Super Eagles have lifted the continental competition three times while Bafana has lifted it once.
"Yeah Nigeria, actually, I was scared of Cape Verde more than Nigeria. I welcome Nigeria. We are going to beat Nigeria. We are not scared of Nigeria," Mahlangu added.
"Again, I don’t want to be carried away. We will take it one day at a time."
The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:00 (SA time).
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