South Africa release final squad list for crucial World Cup Qualifiers against Nigeria

South Africa release final squad list for crucial World Cup Qualifiers against Nigeria

Hassan Abdulsalam 18:37 - 30.05.2024

Nigeria will host Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7th.

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has unveiled his final 23-man squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe in June.

Nigeria will host Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7th.

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The squad boasts a strong attacking contingent, featuring established names like Percy Tau and Themba Zwane.

However, there's a notable omission, in-form Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa, Broos has opted for continuity, sticking with forwards he is familiar with.

Lyle Foster's inclusion is a welcome addition as the Burnley striker, recently relegated with his club, missed the Africa Cup of Nations due to mental health concerns.

Broos revealed he had discussions with Foster himself and Burnley's former manager Vincent Kompany to ensure the player's well-being; with those concerns addressed, Foster is back in the national team fold.

South Africa currently sit in second place in Group C, with Nigeria just behind them, as both teams are chasing Rwanda, the current group leader.

Positive results in June's qualifiers are crucial for Bafana Bafana to take control of the group.

According to reports, the team is targeting a draw in Nigeria and a home win against Zimbabwe to establish a commanding position.

The stakes are high as the top teams from each African group qualify for the first-ever 48-team World Cup, hosted jointly by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

There's also a playoff round for some of the best runners-up, offering another path to the global showpiece.

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