Former Nigeria striker Victor Ikpeba has sent a stark warning to the Super Eagles ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers this month.

The retired footballer says that Bafana Bafana's outstanding showing in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Ivory Coast, should worry his compatriots.

“South Africa will be stubborn as we saw at the last AFCON. They have a lot going for them and are no longer intimidated by Nigeria," Ikpeba told Score Nigeria, as quoted by Soccer Laduma.

"The Super Eagles have to therefore step up to beat them in Uyo.

"It won’t be an easy match, but Nigeria have the players to win," he added.

"This is a game of their lives and Finidi George has to get them to win this match. We have to support the team to get the job done."

Hugo Broos and his trusted soldiers won the bronze medal after finishing third in the Afcon. They were knocked out of the tournament in the semi-finals by Nigeria.

Bafana Bafana are packed with talented players like Themba Zwane, Percy Tau, and in-demand Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng, just to mention a few.

Finidi George's side will be without experienced players like Victor Osimhen and Nathan Tella as they have been ruled out ahead of the two matches.

Nigeria will host the 1996 Afcon winners on Friday, June 7 in Uyo before visiting Benin three days later.