South African-born forward Lebo Mothiba is confident that Bafana Bafana have what it takes to beat Nigeria and ultimately claim the bragging rights come Friday night.
Bafana and the Super Eagles will battle it out for three points in their Group C 2026 World Cup qualifier match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, south of Nigeria.
Mothiba, who missed out on the 23-man squad due to an injury, made a surprise visit to the Bafana camp on the eve of their trip to Nigeria on Wednesday.
Ahead of the mouthwatering clash, the technically gifted striker said he is positive that Bafana will walk away with maximum points if they apply themselves right on the day.
I believe in my teammates
“I am always positive; I believe in my teammates and the national team. We have quality players, and I am saying that we are going to win against Nigeria, for sure,” Mothiba told Safa media.
“But we need to work together, give everything on the pitch, stay positive, and play our hearts out because you can always get to rest after the game.
“So, while you are on the pitch, you have to give everything to the point that they can’t even walk after the game. If we do that, then for sure we are going to win against Nigeria.”
The 28-year-old striker missed the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Ivory Coast early this year after picking up a knee injury a few days before the continental showpiece.
Despite being disappointed about not playing at the Afcon, Mothiba remains positive that he will bounce back stronger and return to the national team set-up.
Disappointed not to feature at Afcon
“I was very disappointed to miss the Afcon; everyone was disappointed, including my family, because we were left with two games before the Afcon tournament, which was my focus then.
“I saw myself there with the team and even winning the Afcon because we really had a good team, but it’s life.
“I must stay positive, keep smiling, continue working hard, have faith, and believe in myself because I have the qualities. I know I will come back to the national team.”
Mothiba is a free agent after parting ways with French League 1 side Strasbourg after spending six years with the club.
“I haven’t spoken to any team here in South Africa. I don’t know what is happening, but my main focus is healing my knee, coming back, and continuing to play in Europe.”
