Nigeria travel south for a decisive Nigeria vs South Africa clash in the FIFA World Cup 2026 CAF qualifiers. The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, sit third in Group C but could rise to second with a win.
The task is steep. South Africa, unbeaten at home in this campaign, have beaten Benin, Zimbabwe and Lesotho in Bloemfontein. Nigeria, however, know that only victory will keep their qualification dreams alive.
After seven matches, the Group C standings are:
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South Africa: 16 points (+8 GD)
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Benin: 11 points (0 GD)
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Nigeria: 10 points (+2 GD)
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Rwanda: 8 points (-1 GD)
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Lesotho: 6 points (-4 GD)
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Zimbabwe: 4 points (-5 GD)
Qualification Stakes and Team News
Only the nine CAF group winners earn automatic tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026. Four best runners-up head into an intercontinental playoff for a possible 10th African spot. Morocco have already sealed their place, but Group C remains open.
For Nigeria, the path is clear but narrow. They must defeat South Africa, then win against Lesotho and Benin in their final matches. At the same time, South Africa would need to drop points. Goal difference or head-to-head records may eventually decide the group. A second-place finish could still give Nigeria a playoff lifeline.
South Africa head coach Hugo Broos faces injury troubles. Defenders Nyiko Mobbie and Thabo Brendon Moloisane are sidelined, with Thabiso Monyane drafted in. Forward Lyle Foster, who impressed against Lesotho, is expected to lead the attack.
Nigeria are hit harder. Star striker Victor Osimhen is out after a chin injury against Rwanda. Head coach Eric Chelle may turn to Tolu Arokodare, with Cyriel Dessers and Samuel Chukwueze also options. Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi are likely to push forward to compensate.
Possible starting lineups:
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South Africa: Williams (GK); Mdunyelwa, Ndamane, Monyane, Modiba; Mokoena, Mbatha; Nkota, Mbule, Appollis; Foster.
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Nigeria: Nwabali (GK); Aina, Fredrick, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyedika, Ndidi, Iwobi; Simon; Lookman, Arokodare.
Head-to-head favors Nigeria, who have six wins from 13 meetings since 2004, compared to South Africa’s one. The last time they clashed in Bloemfontein, Nigeria triumphed 2-1 in the 2019 AFCON qualifiers.
