The Super Eagles of Nigeria have a daunting prospect at hand as they lock horns with Bafana Bafana of South Africa at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein later tonight (Tuesday, September 9).

The three-time African champions will be eyeing a victory against Hugo Broos’ side to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

A defeat for Eric Chelle’s side would end Nigeria’s pursuit of a World Cup ticket, as the Super Eagles are currently six points behind Bafana Bafana in the qualifiers with three matches remaining.

Nigeria heads into the game on the back of a 1–0 victory over Rwanda in their last outing in Uyo. South Africa, on the other hand, thumped Lesotho 3–0 in their most recent match.

Ahead of the cracker, MyNigeriaSports looks at how Malian tactician Eric Chelle could set up his team against Bafana Bafana.

Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali remains untouched in the Super Eagles’ goalpost and is expected to be between the sticks for Eric Chelle’s side against a South African team he knows well.

Defenders
Captain William Troost-Ekong is expected to return to the lineup after starting from the bench in the last game against Rwanda. Calvin Bassey is likely to partner with the Al-Khalood defender, while Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi are expected to be deployed as fullbacks.

Midfielders
Eric Chelle paired Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi in midfield against Rwanda, with the Fulham midfielder playing in a more advanced role. However, the duo of Ndidi and Onyeka struggled to progress the ball into the final third. Raphael Onyedika is more likely to replace Onyeka in midfield.

Forwards
With Victor Osimhen out due to injury, Tolu Arokodare is expected to take the place of the Napoli striker in attack. The 24-year-old came off the bench to score the only goal of the game against Rwanda. Moses Simon, who started alongside Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in that match, is expected to retain his place. However, Lookman delivered one of his poorer performances for the Super Eagles — likely due to his lack of preseason with Atalanta. MyNigeriaSports tips Samuel Chukwueze to start ahead of the reigning African Footballer of the Year due to his superior match fitness.

Predicted Lineup
Stanley Nwabali; Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika; Alex Iwobi; Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare

WDN