An African star has admitted his side cannot afford to let themselves down against South Africa later this year.
Nigeria stand-in captain Kenneth Omeruo has reflected on his side's friendlies, a 2-1 win over Ghana and a 2-0 defeat to Mali, during the most recent international break.
Read: African nation 'at serious risk' of losing right to host AFCON
"We went into the match against Mali determined to win, just as we did against Ghana," he said, per The Guardian Nigeria.
"In the end, they took their chances, and we failed to take ours. That's football. You just have to take the chances that come your way."
The Super Eagles are set to take on Bafana Bafana in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on 3 June, before facing Benin in another qualifying tie just seven days later.
While there is still a long way to go until those matches take place, Omeruo also spoke of the camp's desire to qualify for the next WC.
"Having said that, June is only a few weeks away and we are focused on the matches against South Africa and the Benin Republic," he continued.
"Many players in the group have not played at the World Cup before and they see this as a big opportunity to be there.
"We cannot afford to let ourselves and the nation down."
Read: Ahly to have 'final' meeting over Tau's future after demand
The last time Nigeria met Bafana was in the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, with the Super Eagles progressing to the tournament decider by beating Hugo Broos and his men 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 scoreline in regulation and extra-time.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
WATCH:
