Daniel Akpeyi urges Nigeria to learn from South Africa's rise under Hugo Broos

Now playing for Marumo Gallants in the Betway Premiership, the 38-year-old shot-stopper is impressed by the increasing competitiveness of the South African domestic league and the structure instilled by national team coach Hugo Broos.

Having joined the Premier Soccer League in 2015, Akpeyi has witnessed the growth of South African football first-hand - and he believes Bafana Bafana's recent performances in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers are a testament to that rise.

"The standings in the World Cup qualifiers group are a clear reflection that South African football has progressed. You can have big-name players, but building a cohesive team is what sets successful nations apart," Akpeyi told FarPost.

South Africa currently top Group C in the CAF qualifiers, while Nigeria - three-time African champions - find themselves in fourth place, trailing their southern rivals by six points after six matches.

"Of course, as a Nigerian, I'm disappointed with our results so far, but we should look at what South Africa has done right. Their growth is due to factors like teamwork, tactical identity, and selfless play," said the shot-stopper.

The former Super Eagles goalkeeper believes Nigeria's underperformance is rooted in individualism and a lack of cohesion - two areas where Bafana Bafana have shown major improvement.

"We could be on top if our players prioritized playing for the team, not for themselves. That's the major difference. In South Africa, there's no room for individuality," he added.

"We lack fundamentals that South Africa now possesses - especially cohesion and a clear identity."

As it stands, Nigeria sit fourth in Group C with seven points - behind Benin and Rwanda on eight, and South Africa on 13. Lesotho follow with six points, while Zimbabwe sit bottom with four.