Nigeria, Feb. 7 -- Wednesday's 2023 AFCON semi-final clash between South Africa and Nigeria promises to be an intriguing encounter, given the distinct playing styles of both nations. Both teams have showcased strong defensive performances, with four consecutive clean sheets and reliance on goalkeepers based in South Africa.

The key to securing victory will depend on which team can effectively create and exploit the half-spaces in the final third, thus breaking through the resilient defence that characterises both sides.

Themba Zwane and Ademola Lookman are likely to emerge as pivotal figures for their respective teams, although the No. 9s, Victor Osimhen and Evidence Makgopa, will play significant roles in determining the outcome of the...