It’s a make-or-break clash in Bloemfontein as South Africa host Nigeria in a decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. With Hugo Broos’ side on the brink of sealing their spot and the Super Eagles battling to stay alive, here’s everything you need to know — from kick-off details to squad news and recent form.
The Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein will set the stage for one of the most high-stakes fixtures in African football as South Africa face Nigeria in a crucial Group C qualifier for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For Bafana Bafana, the permutations are simple: a win against the Super Eagles, coupled with Benin dropping points against Lesotho, will secure their ticket to North America. For Nigeria, the stakes are even higher — a defeat would end their hopes of reaching the tournament entirely.
Kick-off Time & Venue
- Fixture: South Africa vs Nigeria
- Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
- Kick-off: 18:00 (local time)
- Venue: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein
How to Watch
Fans can catch the action live on SuperSport and SABC Sport, while streaming is available on DStv Now and FIFA+. For those unable to tune in, live text updates will be provided by major outlets.
South Africa Team News
Coach Hugo Broos will be without right-back Nyiko Mobbie, who picked up an injury against Lesotho. Thabiso Monyane has been called up as cover, though doubts remain over Thabo Moloisane’s fitness.
Probable XI: Williams; Monyane, Modiba, Ngezana, Mbokazi; Mbatha, Mokoena, Mbule; Appollis, Nkota, Foster
Nigeria Team News
The Super Eagles face a major blow with Victor Osimhen ruled out after suffering an injury against Rwanda. Tolu Arokodare is expected to lead the line in his absence, supported by Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon.
Probable XI: Nwabali; Aina, Fredrick, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyedika, Ndidi, Iwobi; Simon, Lookman, Arokodare
Head-to-Head & Form Guide
- South Africa: Five wins, one draw, one loss in their seven qualifiers so far, including a confident 3-0 win over Lesotho last Friday.
- Nigeria: Two wins, four draws, and one defeat — form that has left their qualification hopes hanging by a thread despite edging Rwanda last time out.
In their head-to-head record, regulation-time meetings remain tight with one win each and several draws. Their most recent clash came in the 2023 AFCON semi-final, where Nigeria advanced on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
What’s at Stake
For South Africa, this is a golden chance to punch their ticket to the World Cup and reaffirm their continental resurgence under Broos. For Nigeria, it’s about survival — lose, and the Super Eagles will be watching 2026 from home.
