NIGERIA FACE SOUTH AFRICA IN WORLD CUP QUALIFIER
Super Eagles seek vital away win as Osimhen ruled out and FIFA weighs possible points deduction for hosts
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will take on Group C leaders South Africa on Tuesday in a decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier at the Free State Stadium.
Nigeria, currently third in the group with 10 points, trail South Africa, who lead with 16 points. A win would move the Super Eagles up to second place and strengthen their hopes of securing qualification.
The fixture comes with added drama as FIFA is yet to rule on a case that could see South Africa deducted three points for fielding an ineligible player in March.
Nigeria will be without star striker Victor Osimhen, who is sidelined with a foot injury sustained against Rwanda. His absence leaves coach Eric Chelle relying on in-form attackers such as Tolu Arokodare, who scored the winner in their last match, alongside Lookman, Iwobi, and Simon.
South Africa are unbeaten at home in the qualifiers, with wins over Benin (2–1), Zimbabwe (3–1), and Lesotho (3–0).
Under CAF’s qualification rules, only group winners qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup, while the four best runners-up advance to an intercontinental playoff.
Source: Al Jazeera
