South Africa are within touching distance of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. But there’s still some work to be done in Group C.

On Friday (5/9), South Africa took a significant step in the right direction with a 3-0 win against the Likuena of Lesotho courtesy of goals by Mohau Nkota, Lyle Foster, and Oswin Appollis.

Nigeria arrived in the country full of confidence and eager to spoil the party. The Super Eagles, a traditional powerhouse of African football, know exactly what it takes to reach and compete at the World Cup. 

Despite sitting third in the group and trailing South Africa by six points, their squad is packed with quality players, most of whom ply their trade in Europe’s top leagues. Under coach Éric Chelle, Nigeria have also picked up seven points from a possible nine.

The clash at Toyota Stadium is arguably the biggest international football match in Bloemfontein since Germany thrashed England 4-1 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Group D at the Toyota Stadium.

Broos told OFM Sport this is as big as it gets for his team, and it’s a golden opportunity to showcase what they are made of.

The Siwelele faithful in their numbers at the Toyota Stadium. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Yes, it’s a big opportunity on Tuesday. We all know if we win, we’re qualified.

“It’s not mathematically done, but it would take a miracle for us not to qualify. Still, we’re up against a very good opponent. Just because Nigeria are six points behind doesn’t mean they aren’t a strong side. 

“Their players all play in top European clubs, and that speaks of quality. But we don’t fear them – we’ve had a fantastic qualifying campaign so far.”

Broos also revisited Bafana’s shock loss to Rwanda, putting it down to poor conditions. This was the teams only defeat in the Qualifiers, and despite this the confidence remains high.

“That game was a scandal. Playing a World Cup qualifier on such a pitch in that stadium – it should never have happened. Since then, they’ve been playing in a brand-new venue. 

“That’s why we lost there, not because of the team’s performance. Otherwise, we’ve done what we had to do – winning games and taking draws when needed.”

The last two clashes between South Africa and Nigeria both ended 1-1, one in the qualifiers in Nigeria, and the other in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals in the Ivory Coast, where the Super Eagles won 4-2 on penalties.

“It’s a different ballgame now – there’s so much at stake. Hopefully, being at home will help us, but we need our fans to come out in numbers. Nigeria’s supporters are already here in force, so we need to make sure they feel like they’re away. That’s what happens to us when we travel. Our supporters can be the difference.

“Confidence is high, morale is high, and the team spirit is excellent. We just need to stick to our values, keep doing what’s been working, and get the job done. Hopefully, we can put one foot over the line – and one foot on the plane to America.”

Kick-off for Tuesday night’s highly anticipated Group C World Cup Qualifier between South Africa and Nigeria at the Toyota Stadium is at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg