Nwabali Confident Super Eagles Can Defeat South Africa in World Cup Qualifier

Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali believes the Super Eagles have what it takes to secure victory over South Africa when both sides clash in Bloemfontein on Tuesday in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier.

The Super Eagles trail Bafana Bafana by six points in Group C and need a win to revive their qualification hopes for the tournament set to be hosted in the USA, Canada and Mexico. After seven games in the 10-match series, Nigeria have managed just two wins, four draws and one defeat, leaving them third in the group with 10 points and at risk of missing a second consecutive World Cup.

Nwabali remains upbeat, insisting the team has the quality to build on their 1-0 win over Rwanda.
“I feel like we have a very strong squad to match any country. We respect them because they are topping the group but even though it’s going to be a tough game, I feel we will come out strong” he said in an interview with NFF TV.
“Every game has its own plan. You might have seen them against others but it’s a different approach when it comes to Nigeria. I feel we will win that game.”

South Africa lead the group with 16 points, Benin Republic follow with 11 points while Nigeria sit third with 10 points. Only the group winners will secure an automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup alongside eight other African group leaders.