Sports
2026 WCQ: Nigeria faces South Africa in a defining moment
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will today, Friday, host the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The match is pivotal for both Nigeria and South Africa as they seek to solidify their positions in Group C.
As it stands, Finidi George’s side sits in the third position in Group C with two points from two matches, after draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, respectively.
Rwanda tops the group with four points, while South Africa is in second place with three points.
Lesotho, Zimbabwe and Benin round out the group.
For Nigeria, this match represents an opportunity to record their first win in the group stage, a necessity if they hope to secure direct qualification for the World Cup or at least a chance to compete in the inter-confederation playoffs.
A victory would not only boost their points tally but also their morale and confidence moving forward.
The last time Nigeria and South Africa met was at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, semi-final clash in Ivory Coast this year.
The Super Eagles defeated South Africa 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
South Africa will aim to avenge the AFCON defeat, while Nigeria will aim to consolidate their superiority over the Bafana Bafana.
Super Eagles coach, Finidi George, is expected to deploy an attacking 4-3-3 formation, while South Africa coach Hugo Broos is likely to favour a balanced 4-2-3-1 formation.
Nigeria and South Africa have a storied rivalry in African football.
The two nations have faced each other numerous times, with memorable encounters in both the AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.
Historically, Nigeria has had the upper hand, but South Africa has proven to be a formidable opponent in recent years.
Given the stakes, both teams are expected to approach the game with carefulness, yet attacking mindset.
Nigeria’s home advantage and the need for a win could propel them to play more aggressively.
However, South Africa’s disciplined approach under Broos will make them difficult to break down.
Friday’s match promises to be a thrilling encounter with high stakes for both Nigeria and South Africa.
The outcome could significantly impact the dynamics of Group C and the prospects of both teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Fans can expect a hard-fought battle under the lights of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with both teams aiming to emerge victorious and edge closer to their World Cup dreams.
Speaking with newsmen ahead of the clash, Charles Ogundiya of New Telegraph, said the encounter between Nigeria and South Africa is more than just a ‘qualifier.’
“The Super Eagles’ match with South Africa is more than just a qualifier. It’s a defining moment for both teams in their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey,” Ogundiya told newsmen.
“I know the South Africans would try to get revenge against Nigeria because the Super Eagles defeated them at the 2023 AFCON in the semi-final stage.
“I know that a victory for either side could significantly alter the dynamics of Group C, because Nigeria are one point behind South Africa in the table.”
When asked for his prediction, Ogundiya said he expects an intense clash, adding that the team who take their chances would eventually win the tie.
He said, “Well, I expect an intense match and the team that takes their chances in front of goal will win the match.”
“I’m tipping Nigeria to edge South Africa by 2 goals to 1.”
