Nwabali Confident Eagles Can Beat South Africa in Bloemfontein

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali says Nigeria have what it takes to claim victory over South Africa when both sides clash in Bloemfontein today (Tuesday) in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier.

The Eagles sit third in Group C with 10 points from seven matches, trailing leaders South Africa by six points and the Benin Republic by one. With only three games left, defeat would severely dent Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Nwabali, however, is optimistic the team can build on their narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda.

“I feel like we have a very strong squad to match any country,” he told NFF TV. “We respect South Africa because they are top of the group, but we believe in ourselves. Even though it will be a tough game, I feel we’ll come out strong. Every match has its own plan, and I believe we will win.”

South Africa currently top the group with 16 points, while Benin are second on 11. Only the group winner will secure an automatic ticket to the tournament, with eight other African teams also fighting for top spot in their groups.