Nigeria World Cup qualification hopes suffer setback as South Africa and Benin win, leaving Super Eagles third in Group C before Rwanda clash
Nigeria World Cup qualification hopes took another blow on Friday after South Africa and Benin Republic secured vital victories to tighten their grip on the top spots in Group C.
Also read: Super Eagles camp hits full strength ahead of 2026 FIFA world cup qualifiers
South Africa swept aside Lesotho with a commanding 3-0 win, moving Bafana Bafana to 16 points. In Abidjan, Benin Republic edged past Zimbabwe 1-0, boosting their tally to 11 points.
The results leave Nigeria trailing with only seven points ahead of their crucial double-header. The Super Eagles face Rwanda on Saturday at the Victor Attah International Stadium in Uyo, but even a victory will only keep them in third place.
Coach Finidi George’s men will then travel to Johannesburg on Tuesday for what is shaping up to be a decisive clash against South Africa a match that could make or break their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.
Also read: Super Eagles ignite Uyo with thrilling training session
With rivals extending their lead, the Super Eagles now face mounting pressure to deliver back-to-back wins to keep their fading hopes alive.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
