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.
After defeating Lesotho 3-0 in their most recent match, Bafana Bafana now top 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.
Given Nigeria's patchy record—just two victories in five games—this encounter may be crucial. Hugo Broos' South Africa has won three consecutive qualifiers and is on a three-game winning streak at home, which makes things more difficult.
Victor Osimhen's participation is still in doubt following a knock he sustained against Rwanda.
Nigeria has won two of its previous seven games, giving it a tiny historical advantage in the rivalry.
With three straight victories against the Eagles, including a 1-1 draw in 2024, the South African squad has proven difficult to overcome at home.
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.
The match begins Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 5 p.m. Nigerian time.
