By Oluwashina Okeleji in Lagos

Nigeria's Mercy Akide is confident of beating South Africa

Nigeria and South Africa are both confident of claiming Africa's sole place at the Olympic women's football tournament in Athens.

The two sides meet in Abuja on Friday in the second leg of the play-off final locked at 2-2 after the first leg in South Africa two weeks ago.

After a period of relative upheaval in the Nigerian camp, things appear to be a bit calmer as coach Ismaila Mabo takes his Super Falcons into battle.

Nigeria, arguably Africa's top female side, have come under criticism from the local press following Mabo's decision to stick with several veteran players and the team's mediocre performances in the Athens qualifiers so far.

But having struggled to beat their perennial rivals - Ghana - last time out, the four-times African champions are taking no chances against Banyana Banyana.

I know they'll come out with determination like they did in South Africa but we'll still beat them Mercy Akide

"We're aware that South African football is on the rise and they'll give us a good fight, but my girls have Athens on their minds, so they know the importance of the game," Mabo told BBC Sport on the eve of the match.

Mabo added that the fact his side have struggled against both Ghana and South Africa is a good thing for women's football in Africa.

"All the teams are improving and this is a wake up call for us, but there's no cause for alarm," he said.

Former African Footballer of the Year and American-based striker, Mercy Akide says they expect a tough duel from the South Africans.

"I know they'll come out with determination like they did in South Africa but we'll still beat them," she said.

Following their draw at home a fortnight ago, the South Africans are hoping to cause a big upset in Abuja.

Banyana Banyana's coach, Greg Mashilo, told BBC Sport that the game is still wide open.

He said: "My players are here to make history and we'll accomplish that."

However, history seems to be against the South Africans since they have never beaten Nigeria in a women's international.