The race to qualify for next summer’s FIFA World Cup is reaching fever pitch in Africa, with Nigeria, Benin and South Africa all still in the hunt for Group C supremacy ahead of tonight’s decisive round of matches.
In Uyo, the Super Eagles face table-toppers Benin in what promises to be a dramatic, winner-takes-all contest, while South Africa host Rwanda in Mbombela.
Nigeria’s route is tricky but still alive. Currently third, Eric Chelle’s side must win, and win well, to have any chance of automatic qualification.
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A victory would take the three-time African champions level on 17 points with Benin, but goal difference will then come into play.
The Super Eagles, with a +3 goal difference, need to beat Benin (+5 GD) by at least two goals to leapfrog them, while also hoping South Africa fail to win. A 2-0, 3-1 or 4-2 scoreline would do the trick if Rwanda can hold or upset Bafana Bafana.
Anything less – a draw or defeat will end Nigeria’s hopes of topping the group.
Even a 1-0 win could leave both sides level on points and goal difference, in which case FIFA’s tiebreakers, including head-to-head record and fair play points, would come into play.
However, a second-place finish with 15 points could still offer Nigeria a lifeline via the play-offs, where the four best runners-up will fight for a spot in the intercontinental play-offs next March.
Bafana Bafana eye home advantage against Rwanda
For South Africa, the equation is more straightforward. Victory over Rwanda guarantees at least a top-two finish and could deliver top spot, if Benin fail to win in Uyo.
A two-goal victory for Hugo Broos’ side would send them to the World Cup automatically if Benin slip up. Intriguingly, even a loss could see South Africa sneak into second place should Nigeria fall at home.
But a draw would eliminate any chance of finishing top, and if Nigeria triumph, Bafana Bafana could miss out entirely.
With all three nations still in the running, tonight’s Group C finale is shaping up to be one of the most compelling nights in African qualifying history.
