Ex-Super Eagles Coach, Siasia Sends Important Message To Chelle Ahead Of South Africa Match

Former Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia, has advised the incumbent manager, Eric Chelle, to fully utilise Ademola Lookman’s set-piece ability and Tolu Arokodare’s physical presence when Nigeria face South Africa in today’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match.

Naija News reports that the Eagles travel to Bloemfontein on the back of a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo, where Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Arokodare scored just five minutes after coming off the bench.

That victory kept Nigeria within touching distance of Group C leaders South Africa. A win at the Free State Stadium would cut the deficit to just three points and strengthen their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup.

Speaking on SuperSport, Siasia said the win over Rwanda should boost confidence but warned that Bafana Bafana, who have won four straight qualifiers for the first time since 2002, will pose a formidable challenge.

“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.

‘Limit Defensive Errors, Take Chances’

The 1994 AFCON winner urged Chelle’s men to stay disciplined, limit defensive errors, and avoid unnecessary fouls.

According to him, the team must seize scoring opportunities away from home to secure at least a point, or ideally all three.

“Facing Nigeria has never been easy for South Africa, but we must have a clear plan,” Siasia added.

Siasia stressed the importance of proper planning, insisting the Eagles must build on their performance against Rwanda but also create more chances. He highlighted Lookman’s set-piece prowess as a potential game-changer in Bloemfontein.

He also pointed to Arokodare’s impact against Rwanda, where the forward pounced on a loose ball to bundle home the winner, as proof that the striker could be decisive.

“Arokodare’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play can give us an edge. Lookman, on the other hand, can punish them with set-pieces if we win fouls in dangerous areas,” Siasia noted.

While acknowledging South Africa’s current form, the former Nigeria international reminded Bafana Bafana that history has rarely favoured them against Nigeria.

Siasia insisted that with focus, discipline, and efficient use of their attacking weapons, the Super Eagles can return from South Africa with a vital result to keep their World Cup qualification bid alive.

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