Former Bafana Bafana coach Augusto Palacios has shared his insights on the looming FIFA World Cup qualifier, a match that pits South Africa against the formidable Nigeria in Uyo on Friday evening.
"The national team should approach their World Cup qualifier with confidence," Palacios emphasized.
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As the Hugo Broos-coached side gears up for what promises to be a riveting encounter, Palacios reflected on their past performances.
"During the AFCON in Ivory Coast, they showed that they can match Nigeria pound for pound," he noted.
The 2023 AFCON was a testament to Nigeria's strength, with their star-studded team advancing to the final through penalties, only to be bested by hosts Ivory Coast. Yet, Palacios is hopeful that Bafana can come away with a positive result in the West African country.
"This is a difficult game for both sides," he told KickOff, dismissing the notion that the number of overseas players in the opposition's ranks would tilt the scales in their favour.
"You can't judge it by saying most Nigeria players are playing overseas and South Africa only has two. That will not count. I think the game will be very difficult, and South Africa will have a very good result."
Palacios called for the players to commit with the same fervor they displayed during the Africa Cup of Nations, emphasizing the need for confidence and the courage to fight for a draw or a win.
"It's a different game because this one will be played home and away. It's going to be very difficult, but we need to play to our strength. The reason it's called a national team is because the coach believes in his players.
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"We do have enough quality. The coach is confident in his players, so we must support him and continue to believe in our players," he concluded.
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