Nigeria’s Samuel Chukwueze expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s ability to defeat South Africa without resorting to penalties in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final. The AC Milan winger dismissed the notion of Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, as a penalty-saving specialist, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to secure a win within regular or extra time, rather than leaving the outcome to chance.
Chukwueze addressed the remarkable performance of Williams in saving four penalties in a single AFCON shootout, underscoring the element of luck in penalty kicks and highlighting the team’s focus on achieving victory without relying on such uncertainties. “It is not about being scared, it is about being on a safer side at the moment,” he remarked, reflecting the team’s cautious yet determined approach.
With an eye on the upcoming clash, Chukwueze emphasized the team’s thorough preparation, acknowledging the strength of their opponents while reaffirming their commitment to giving their best efforts to secure a win. “We have been watching their clips, they are good on their own, but we will try our best and win,” he stated, reflecting the team’s strategic analysis and determination to emerge victorious.
