In a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana will welcome the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Tuesday at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Both teams are under pressure to produce a result as Group C reaches its peak. Nigeria is in dire need of a victory to maintain its hopes of qualifying for the World Cup, while South Africa wants to maintain its lead in the group.
Current standings
After defeating Lesotho 3-0 in their most recent match, Bafana Bafana now lead the group with 16 points. Nigeria is only one point behind the second-place Benin Republic in third place with ten points. To remain in the race, the Eagles defeated Rwanda 1-0 on Sunday.
Eagles under pressure
Given Nigeria’s patchy record—just two victories in five games—this encounter could be crucial. The fact that Hugo Broos’ South Africa has won three straight qualifiers and is on a three-game winning streak at home just makes things more difficult.
Injury watch and key battles
Victor Osimhen’s availability is still in doubt following a knock he sustained against Rwanda.
Nigeria has won two of their previous seven games, giving them a tiny historical advantage in the rivalry.
Nevertheless, the South African squad has been difficult to beat at home, winning all three of their previous meetings with the Eagles, including a 1-1 draw in 2024.
Rivalry
At the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria defeated South Africa on the road for the final time. Their chances of qualifying would be much increased if they were to secure another decisive win on Tuesday.
Kickoff
The match begins Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 5 p.m. Nigerian time.
On SuperSport, SportyBet TV, and AfroSport, fans can watch the action live.
