Ahead of next week’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein has officially been cleared to host the fixture by FIFA and CAF.
There had been uncertainty over the venue after concerns were raised about the poor pitch conditions at the stadium, but both governing bodies have now confirmed the arena meets the required standard following fresh inspections.
In the lead-up to Nigeria’s visit, Lesotho will face South Africa at the same venue on Friday, September 5, as the Crocodiles do not have a FIFA-approved stadium of their own.
Four days later, on September 9, Bafana Bafana will return to the Free State Stadium to host the Super Eagles in a decisive matchday-eight encounter.
South Africa currently lead the qualifying group with 13 points from six games, while Nigeria sit fourth with seven points – one behind Rwanda and Benin Republic, who occupy second and third place respectively.
Eric Chelle’s men face the daunting task of collecting maximum points from their upcoming fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa if they are to keep alive their hopes of qualifying for a seventh FIFA World Cup.
A joint statement from FIFA and CAF confirmed the green light for the Free State Stadium:
“Considering the encouraging progress observed on the pitch, both organisations have agreed that the matches will proceed as originally scheduled at the Free State Stadium,” the statement read.