Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has made a surprising statement, saying that the Super Eagles of Nigeria will help South Africa qualify for the 2026 World Cup, despite being rivals in Group C of the African qualifiers.
South Africa climbed to the top of the group on Saturday after their 2-0 win over Lesotho, while Nigeria defeated former joint leaders Rwanda by the same scoreline. Benin Republic, who were level on points with South Africa in the previous round of matches, dropped to second after drawing 2-2 with Zimbabwe.
With Nigeria set to face Zimbabwe at home on Tuesday, and South Africa traveling to face Benin Republic on the same day, the group dynamics could shift if the Super Eagles win and Benin hold South Africa to a draw. However, Broos remains unfazed by the potential scenario, insisting that Nigeria’s desperation to win their remaining matches will actually benefit South Africa, who currently enjoy a four-point lead over the three-time African champions.
Broos explained his reasoning at the post-match press conference, saying, “You know I said a few days ago that there was a team or country in the group who could help us a lot and it is Nigeria. You saw they beat Rwanda today.”
He continued, “They cannot afford themselves anymore to lose points. Against every team they will do everything to win and at the moment, we have four points ahead of Nigeria.”
Broos concluded, “It’s up to us to do what we have to do, and when we do that, Nigeria will help us — you’ll see.”
Broos’ statement may seem counterintuitive, but he believes that Nigeria’s determination to win will ultimately benefit South Africa. With the group dynamics shifting rapidly, it will be interesting to see how the remaining matches play out.
As the qualifiers continue, South Africa will be looking to maintain their lead and secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be desperate to win their remaining matches and keep their qualification hopes alive.
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