Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali believes the Super Eagles have enough talent to defeat South Africa when they meet in Bloemfontein today (Tuesday) for an important 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Right now, Nigeria is six points behind South Africa in Group C. They must win this match to keep alive their dream of playing in the World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Out of the seven matches played so far, the Eagles have only managed two wins, one loss, and four draws. With just three games left, they are in third place with 10 points. If things don’t change, they risk missing the World Cup for the second time in a row.
Before the game, Nwabali encouraged Nigerians to believe in the team, saying they can build on their recent 1–0 victory over Rwanda and get another good result.
“I feel like we have a very strong squad to match any country. I don’t see it as a big thing to us. We respect them because they are doing well by topping the group. Even though it’s going to be a tough game, I feel we will come out strong,” Nwabali told NFF TV.
“Every game has its own plan. You might have seen them against others, but it’s a different approach when it comes to Nigeria. I feel we will win that game.”
At the moment, South Africa is first with 16 points, Benin Republic is second with 11 points, and Nigeria is third with 10 points. Only the first-place team in each group will qualify directly for the World Cup, joining eight other African group winners in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
