Many fans and experts in South Africa are excited by the rivalry Bafana Bafana and Nigeria share, but Super Eagles legend Jay-Jay Okocha says that, in Nigeria, they do not see SA as their rivals.
Read: Okocha: Sundowns Are SA's Top Team
The former Africa Cup of Nations winner, who was in Mzansi this past weekend for the Bundesliga Legends Tour, spoke to Soccer Laduma about the upcoming clash between South Africa and Nigeria. However, he insisted Bafana are not really his nation's fiercest rivals on the pitch.
"No, we do not see South Africa as our rivals, but we know that they are very tough opponents," he said.
"Maybe the Nigerians who are living here (in South Africa) see that as bragging rights, but I do not have to go with what fans make of the game.
"I speak as a football personality, somebody who has been there before, you know. So I know they are not our rivals, but it is always a good match to watch."
Okocha, who represented the Super Eagles 75 times, is hopeful for an exciting match on Saturday.
"Well, may the better team win! I want to enjoy the game," he added.
"I want to see a good, very competitive match. Of course, my heart is with Nigeria, but if South Africa deserve it, they should win."
You can read the full exclusive interview, during which Okocha also speaks about SA youngster Tashreeq Matthews, who joined Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund recently, and why more South African players should move abroad, in this week's edition of Soccer Laduma, issue 1099.
