Retired Super Eagles goalkeeper Greg Etafia has acknowledged the blow Nigeria faces without star striker Victor Osimhen for tonight’s vital World Cup qualifier against South Africa at Free State Stadium.
Osimhen, sidelined by a chin injury sustained in Nigeria’s recent 1-0 victory over Rwanda, will not travel with the team. Yet Etafia remains confident other players will rise to the occasion. “Osimhen is a big player, so obviously his absence is a huge blow for Nigeria, but I believe there are other players who can step up and deliver in his absence,” he said.
The match carries enormous weight, with South Africa leading Group C on 16 points and Nigeria trailing by six. Etafia stressed, “Nigeria know very well that failing to beat Bafana would end their chances of topping the group, while Bafana on the other side know that a win could qualify them, so it’s going to be a massive game.”
Players like Cyriel Dessers, who replaced Osimhen against Rwanda, and Tolu Arokodare, the match winner, are expected to spearhead Nigeria’s attack.
Defence will be key, according to Etafia. “I think this game will be won and lost in defence. A team that will defend well will win this match. Bafana have a new central defensive pairing but that doesn’t mean it will be easy for Nigeria.”
The retired keeper also praised South Africa’s coach Hugo Broos for his tactical acumen. Etafia’s insight highlights the crucial balance Nigeria must strike between attacking firepower and defensive solidity if they hope to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
