WCQ: Super Eagles Face Rising Pressure as South Africa, Benin Secure Wins

Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt a fresh blow after Group C rivals South Africa and Benin Republic both recorded crucial victories on Friday, piling more pressure on the Super Eagles ahead of their weekend clash with Rwanda.

The Bafana Bafana defeated Lesotho 2-0 in Johannesburg to consolidate their position near the top of the group, while Benin Republic stunned Zimbabwe 1-0 in Cotonou to leapfrog Nigeria in the standings. Both results leave the Super Eagles trailing their main challengers, with limited room for error as the qualifiers reach a decisive phase.

Nigeria, who have endured a stuttering start to the campaign with three draws and one win in their opening matches, now face Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio (Victor Attah) International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday. The encounter is the first of two critical fixtures in September, with the Eagles also set to travel away for another must-win tie.

Head coach Finidi George is under mounting scrutiny to revive the team’s fortunes, especially after the disappointing draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe earlier in the series. Anything short of victory on Saturday could further dent Nigeria’s chances of returning to the World Cup after missing out on Qatar 2022.

With only the group winners guaranteed automatic qualification, the Super Eagles must now rely not only on their own performances but also on results elsewhere in a fiercely competitive Group C.