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How Nigeria Can Qualify for 2026 World Cup depends on winning key games and rivals dropping points.
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The Super Eagles are fourth in Group C with a playoff route still open.
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FIFA sanction on South Africa could aid their chances.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria can still reach the finals in North America, but they must win key matches and hope for favourable results elsewhere.
Also Read: World Cup Qualifiers: Osimhen Arrives in Uyo as Nigeria Gear Up for Rwanda, SA
CAF sends nine group winners straight through, while the four best runners-up go into a playoff that could lead to an inter-confederation decider.
Nigeria sit fourth in Group C with seven points from six games, trailing South Africa by six points and one behind Rwanda and Benin.
With four fixtures remaining, the immediate priority is a home win over Rwanda in September.
If Nigeria win that match and then take a positive result against South Africa on matchday eight, the Super Eagles would revive realistic hopes of topping the group.
However, if Nigeria failed to beat Rwanda and South Africa beat Lesotho, first place would be out of reach.
In that case, Nigeria must focus on finishing as one of the best runners-up to claim a playoff spot – a riskier path because only the top four runners-up advance.
Meanwhile, there is also a possible off-field route for Nigeria to qualify for the 2026 World Cup
South Africa reportedly fielded Teboho Mokoena in their 2–0 win over Lesotho despite the midfielder having two bookings, which could make him ineligible.
The NFF has lodged a protest, and officials say a FIFA decision that docks South Africa three points would materially change the group standings.
Given that, Nigeria’s campaign hinges both on results on the pitch and the outcome of that disciplinary case.
