As the Super Eagles prepare to face South Africa today in Bloemfontein, players say the match is their biggest challenge yet in the bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s journey to the global tournament has been rocky.
They missed the 2022 edition in Qatar after losing the final qualification spot to Ghana on away goals, drawing 0-0 in Cape Coast and 1-1 in Abuja.
It was their second absence from the World Cup, having failed to qualify for the 2006 edition as well, when Angola edged them out on goal difference.
This year’s qualification campaign has shown similar signs of difficulty.
The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C with 10 points, trailing South Africa (16 points) and Benin Republic (11 points).
To stand any chance of qualification, Nigeria must beat South Africa and win their remaining matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
They’re also hoping for a favorable ruling from FIFA regarding South Africa’s fielding of ineligible player Tehobo Mokoena in an earlier match against Lesotho.
A points deduction could swing the group standings in Nigeria’s favor.
Despite the odds, Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze remains upbeat.
Speaking ahead of the match, he praised South Africa as a well-organised team but expressed full belief in Nigeria’s ability to win.
“We are Nigerians, and we don’t fear anybody,” Chukwueze declared confidently.
“We know how important it is to win this game. We’re treating it like a final.”
He added that he hopes the match environment in Bloemfontein will allow for quality football.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who plays club football in South Africa, echoed Chukwueze’s optimism.
He said the team is focused and prepared to face a potentially hostile crowd.
“We have a strong squad that can compete with any team. South Africa is on top of the group for a reason, but we’re not intimidated,” said Nwabali.
“People judge us based on the Rwanda match, but every game is different. Teams always bring their best when they play Nigeria.”
Nwabali emphasized that qualification requires collective effort, not just from the players, but from the entire nation.
“We will be at the World Cup, 100 percent. But we need every Nigerian’s support. This isn’t a solo mission, it’s a team effort,” he said.
