South Africa’s national team coach Hugo Broos has insisted that Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain alive despite their current struggles in the qualifying campaign. The Belgian tactician has urged his players to remain cautious as Bafana Bafana prepare for two decisive fixtures in September that could shape the outcome of Group C.
At the moment, South Africa lead the standings with thirteen points collected from six matches. That tally puts them comfortably ahead of Rwanda and Benin who are both locked on eight points each. Nigeria, a team that many had tipped as favorites to dominate the group, find themselves in fourth position with only seven points to show from their opening six games. The Super Eagles have managed just a single victory so far, leaving their supporters frustrated and raising questions about whether the three-time African champions can recover in time.
Broos, however, has refused to rule them out. Speaking to Iol, he explained that Nigeria remain the most dangerous side in the group despite their slow start. According to him, the Super Eagles have the quality and the pedigree to mount a comeback if taken lightly. He pointed out that overlooking them at this stage of the campaign could be the costliest mistake his team could make.
“We knew from the very beginning that Nigeria would be the team we had to overcome if we wanted to qualify,” Broos said. “Even though they started the qualifiers badly, they are still very much in contention. A country like Nigeria cannot be written off so easily. They have talented players spread across Europe’s top leagues and the ability to turn things around quickly if they get into rhythm. That is why we must take them seriously when they come to Johannesburg.”
Before their high-profile encounter with the Super Eagles, South Africa will first travel to meet Lesotho on September 5. Four days later, on September 9, Bafana Bafana will host Nigeria in what many believe could be the pivotal fixture of the group. Broos has repeatedly reminded his players that every point matters and that no opponent should be dismissed, particularly not Lesotho, who have already shown their resilience.
“The greatest danger for us as a team is to think that some matches will be easy,” Broos continued. “People must not forget that Lesotho managed to hold Nigeria to a draw in Nigeria. That result was a warning to everyone. We must not make the mistake of underestimating them. Yes, we beat them before, but that does not guarantee we will win again if we approach the match with complacency. Football does not work like that. Every match must be treated as a final.”
The coach’s remarks are clearly aimed at keeping his squad focused on the immediate challenge rather than thinking too far ahead. With South Africa leading the group, there is already a sense of optimism among supporters that qualification is within reach. Yet Broos knows that one slip could open the door for rivals like Rwanda, Benin, or Nigeria to take advantage.
Nigeria’s situation is precarious, but history suggests they thrive when under pressure. The Super Eagles have a track record of turning difficult qualification campaigns around, often producing decisive results when it matters most. Broos has acknowledged this tradition and has called on his players to show discipline and determination, warning that one bad performance could undo months of progress.
As the countdown to the September fixtures continues, both South Africa and Nigeria will intensify their preparations. For Bafana Bafana, it is a chance to consolidate their position at the summit of the group and edge closer to their first World Cup appearance since 2010. For the Super Eagles, it represents an opportunity to revive their campaign and silence the growing doubts about their chances.
Broos has made it clear that his team respects every opponent but fears none. His message is simple: do not underestimate any side, stay focused, and take nothing for granted. With the stakes so high, the coming matches promise to deliver drama, tension, and possibly a turning point in the battle for World Cup qualification.
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