Former Nigeria coach Samson Siasia has advised Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle to make the most of Ademola Lookman’s set-piece ability and Tolu Arokodare’s physical presence when they face South Africa in a key 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday (today).
Nigeria travels to Bloemfontein after a narrow 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo, where Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Arokodare scored the game-winner only five minutes after coming off the bench.
The victory keeps the Super Eagles within striking reach of Group C leaders South Africa, with a win at the Free State Stadium potentially closing the deficit to three points.
Speaking on SuperSport, Siasia stated that the victory against Rwanda should build confidence but warned that Bafana Bafana, who have won four consecutive qualifiers for the first time since 2002, will face difficult opponents.
“We need to keep the ball, win free kicks, and allow players like Lookman to make the difference. Arokodare can also be important in holding up play and creating chances,” he said.
The 1994 AFCON winner advised Chelle’s team to limit defensive errors, avoid unnecessary fouls, and seize opportunities away from home in order to secure at least one point, ideally all three, and boost their qualification ambitions.
Siasia emphasized the significance of thorough preparation for the match, emphasizing the necessity to improve on their performance against Rwanda while creating more opportunities.
He stated that, while Bafana Bafana is now at the top of the group, they must exercise extreme caution because confronting Nigeria has historically been difficult for them, adding, “Facing Nigeria has never been easy for South Africa, but we must have a clear plan.”
Siasia highlighted the importance of the backline avoiding fouling, especially because the match was being played away from home, and urged the side to maximize on set-piece opportunities with Lookman’s expertise.
Arokodare’s performance against Rwanda, in which he pounced on a loose ball to score the victory, has given Siasia confidence that the striker can play an important role in the team’s attacking phase due to his ability to keep the ball and create chances for teammates.
