Okocha explains why Super Eagles should not focus on South Africa rivalry in World Cup qualifiers

Legendary Nigerian midfielder, Austin Jay Jay Okocha has disclosed why the Super Eagles should ignore their rivalry with South Africa in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles failed to win any of their first two qualifiers for the 2026 tournament after playing out a 1-1 draw against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

South Africa didn't also start the qualifiers well, winning their first game against Benin Republic but then losing to group leaders, Rwanda in the second game.

In a recent interview, Okocha claimed the Nigerian national team were lucky Hugo Broos' side lost their last qualifiers and claimed both teams are focusing more on the rivalries than results, according to a report by BSN Sports.

"Nigeria and South Africa did not get off to a good start [in the World Cup qualifiers], and I can say we are lucky that Bafana Bafana lost their second match [against Rwanda]," he said.

"I feel the Super Eagles are focusing more on the South Africa-Nigeria rivalry instead of focusing on the qualifiers. It is a big surprise that Rwanda are on top of Group C," Okocha added.

The former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder also explained that both teams need to change their mindset and set their focus on the qualifiers if they are to advance.

The 2026 World Cup qualifiers are presently on hold and will resume next year, with both Nigeria and South Africa currently gearing up for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.