- Super Eagles dropped to fourth position in Group C after Benin’s win
By Tolúlopé Olátúnjí
The Super Eagles are gearing up to face the Bafana Bafana of South Africa Friday, June 7, 2024, in a crucial match that could solidify their berth in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The game will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, with kickoff scheduled for 8 pm llocal time.
Meanwhile, the last encounter between the two teams saw the Super Eagles triumph over the Hugo Broos-led South African side in the semifinals of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, winning on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Historically, the Super Eagles have dominated their FIFA World Cup Qualifier (WCQ) matchups against South Africa, having met four times in double headers in 1992, 1993, and 2008, and remaining unbeaten.
Overall, in 15 encounters, Nigeria has won eight times, drawn five, and lost only twice against the Bafana Bafana.
Despite this favourable history, the Super Eagles find themselves in a precarious position, having dropped from third to fourth in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers without playing a match. This shift occurred after Benin Republic’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda on Thursday, June 6, which propelled Benin to second place in the group.
Led by former Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, Benin now has four points, the same as group leaders Rwanda.
Rwanda’s inability to secure points from their game provides an opportunity for the Super Eagles. A victory against South Africa in Uyo would propel Nigeria to the top of the table with five points, one point ahead of Rwanda.
Following today’s clash with South Africa, the Super Eagles will face another challenging test against Benin’s Squirrels in Ivory Coast on Monday, June 10, while, South Africa will play Zimbabwe in their next qualifier.
The outcome of these matches is critical as Nigeria aims to regain its top position and secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
