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Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain alive, but barely.
The Super Eagles sit third in Group C with 14 points, trailing Benin (17) and South Africa (15) after a dramatic penultimate round of fixtures.
Eric Chelle’s men beat Lesotho 2–1 in Polokwane, with William Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams scoring to keep Nigeria’s campaign alive.
Benin edged Rwanda 1–0 to maintain their grip at the top, while South Africa were held to a frustrating 0–0 draw by Zimbabwe, losing crucial ground.
Now, it all comes down to the final matchday. Nigeria will host Benin in Uyo, and South Africa face Rwanda at home in what could be the defining night of Group C.
What the Super Eagles need to qualify
To reach the 2026 World Cup (staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico), Nigeria must beat Benin by at least two goals. That result would push them level on points and potentially above Gernot Rohr’s side on goal difference.
However, they will also need South Africa to drop points against Rwanda. If Bafana Bafana fail to win, Nigeria could top the group and seal automatic qualification.
Only group winners qualify directly. The four best runners-up across Africa’s nine groups advance to a playoff, but Group C’s low overall points mean Nigeria’s realistic route is winning the group.
It’s win big or bust for the Super Eagles.
