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Nigeria face South Africa in a must-win 2026 World Cup qualifier on September 9 in Bloemfontein.
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South Africa lead Group C, while Nigeria trail and need all three points.
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Only the group winner qualifies automatically.
Nigeria 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa takes centre stage on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Bloemfontein’s 46,000-seat Toyota Stadium. Kickoff starts at 5 pm Nigerian time.
Also Read: Finidi George Focused on Must-Win World Cup Qualifier Against South Africa
South Africa top Group C with 13 points from six games, while Nigeria sit fourth on seven after one win, four draws and one loss.
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Before that trip, the Super Eagles host Rwanda in Uyo on September 6.
They then close out October with matches away to Lesotho and at home against Benin.
In June’s 1–1 draw in Uyo, Themba Zwane fired South Africa ahead before Fisayo Dele-Bashiru levelled early in the second half.
Only the group winner grabs automatic qualification; the runner-up must fight through CAF and inter-confederation play-offs.
Nigeria must seize all three points in Bloemfontein to reignite their bid and chase a seventh World Cup finals.
As Africa’s three-time champions push to return after missing Qatar 2022, the spotlight will shine on Bloemfontein as the race to the 2026 World Cup heats up.
