The Nigerian national football team is drawing on its impressive track record against South Africa ahead of their encounter on Wednesday in the semi-finals of the 2023 African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
Nigeria has historically held the upper hand whenever facing South Africa in various tournaments and competitions.
Out of the 13 encounters between the two teams, Nigeria has secured victory seven times, scoring 21 goals, while South Africa managed only two victories, netting 10 goals. The teams have drawn four times.
In the context of the African Cup of Nations, Nigeria has emerged victorious in all three previous encounters against South Africa. This includes a 2-0 win in the semi-finals of the 2000 edition, a commanding 4-0 victory in the group stage of the 2004 edition, and a 2-1 triumph in the quarter-finals of the 2019 edition.
Nigeria’s dominance extends beyond match results to the market value of its players. The combined market value of Nigeria’s squad amounts to approximately €332 million.
Leading the pack is Victor Osimhen, Africa’s top player, with a market value of €110 million, according to Transfermarkt.
Following closely is Ademola Lookman, valued at €30 million, who plays for Atalanta in Italy.
In contrast, the market value of the South African national team is significantly lower, at around €23.03 million.
Most of South Africa’s players compete in domestic and African leagues, particularly with Sundowns, the 2023 African Super Cup champions.
Teboho Mokoena, a Sundowns player, tops the list of South Africa’s highest-valued players, with a market value of €2.2 million, followed by Percy Tau of Egyptian club Al Ahly, valued at €1.5 million.
They are trailed by Aubrey Modiba, also from Sundowns, valued at €1.4 million.
As Nigeria and South Africa prepare to clash once again, Nigeria’s historical supremacy and the market value of its players underscore its status as the favorite in this highly anticipated encounter.
