The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to lock horns with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana tonight in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The clash in Bloemfontein could well shape the destiny of both teams and the race for that coveted top spot.
Victor Osimhen will not be in action due to a foot injury, a big blow to Nigeria’s attacking thrust. His absence adds even more pressure on the Super Eagles to regroup under the leadership of Eric Chelle and deliver on the pitch.
South Africa, meanwhile, will be fueled by confidence. They have had a strong start to the campaign and are currently leading the group. Their momentum was further boosted by a 3–0 win over Lesotho in Bloemfontein, with players like Mohau Nkota urging the team to push even harder for a result against Nigeria. However, a cloud hangs over that victory, as Bafana may face a three-point deduction after fielding an ineligible player earlier in the qualifiers.
In response to Osimhen’s absence, Coach Eric Chelle is expected to shuffle his starting eleven. Cyriel Dessers is tipped to lead the line, with support from wingers Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon in a potential 4-4-2 diamond formation. Alex Iwobi is likely to take on a more advanced midfield role to drive creativity and link up play.
Midfield dynamism is also expected to improve with Raphael Onyedika possibly stepping in for Frank Onyeka. This change could give Nigeria better control in central areas — something they lacked in their last match against Rwanda.
Defensively, captain William Troost-Ekong is set to return to the starting lineup, providing leadership at the back. Stanley Nwabali remains in goal and could be pivotal tonight, considering his familiarity with many South African players from his time in the domestic league. Super sub Tolu Arokodare, who scored against Rwanda, will be an option from the bench.
For the Super Eagles, this is a do-or-die moment. Wrestling with inconsistency earlier in the campaign, they need a win in a big away game to revive their World Cup hopes. Nigeria are trailing South Africa by six points but could close the gap if Bafana loses points, making tonight a true turning point in the group.
Stay tuned. This one is going to be electric.