The Super Eagles could seal qualification to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in their match against South Africa on Saturday at the FNB Stadium, Johannesburg. South Africa also have sights on qualification, placed second on the log with a point behind Nigeria. The game also represents a bit of a grudge match, with the Super Eagles keen on a revenge after the humbling first-leg loss in Uyo. Here are five players set to sparkle in the qualifier.
John Ogu
With the exclusion of Ogenyi Onazi and John Mikel Obi from the South Africa game, the suspension of Wilfred Ndidi and the unlikelihood of Gernot Rohr deploying Oghenekaro Etebo as the lone defensive midfielder in the fixture away at the FNB Stadium, the mostly-benched John Ogu could get a rare opportunity to impress.
It bears the same feel as the dead-rubber against Algeria where Ogu scored a belter from range. Unfortunately, the game was adjudged forfeited because Nigeria fielded an ineligible player.
The powerhouse has proven to be an effective player at the base of the midfield with his passing range, tackling and an anticipation that helps covers a slight lack of mobility. He also has the ability to dictate the tempo of the game from deep, an ability that will be needed in a game played at the high altitude FNB. Read more