The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification journey reaches a critical juncture this Tuesday evening for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, the Republic of Benin, and South Africa, as their fates hang in the balance, according to Soccernet.ng.
Eric Chelle‘s Nigerian squad faces a must-win encounter against Gernot Rohr‘s Benin team on home turf in Uyo. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana must secure a victory over Rwanda to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
However, Nigeria’s triumph alone won’t guarantee progression if South Africa also emerges victorious, as that would pave a smoother path for Bafana Bafana to advance from the group stage.
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South Africa’s goalkeeper, Ronwen Hayden Williams, has expressed uncertainty about his team’s chances of reaching the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2010. This skepticism stems from FIFA’s recent decision to dock three points from South Africa due to the fielding of an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their match against Lesotho.
“Naturally, doubts have crept in. Just a month ago, our qualification seemed straightforward until FIFA penalized us by deducting three points for playing Teboho Mokoena illegally against Lesotho in March,” Williams shared with Sportswire.
Williams Doubts Benin’s Chances Against Nigeria
Approaching their clash with Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium, the 33-year-old goalkeeper feels a sense of déjà vu. The stadium holds bittersweet memories for South African supporters, who once celebrated qualification for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations after a draw with Sierra Leone in 2012. However, due to CAF’s application of the head-to-head rule over goal difference, South Africa ultimately missed out on the tournament they were set to host.
“I remain hopeful that things will turn in our favor. People need to hold onto that belief. I’m a believer in miracles,” said the AFCON 2023 Golden Glove recipient.
“I recall 12 years ago, we were crunching numbers at Mbombela Stadium – and now, here we are again at the same venue. Perhaps this is our opportunity to amend past disappointments. I’m optimistic and confident the outcome will favor us.
“Now, Nigeria faces Benin, and frankly, I don’t foresee Benin securing a positive result against Nigeria. But our focus remains on doing our part against Rwanda.
“We understand the significance and difficulty of this match, and our squad is prepared to meet the challenge.
“There’s immense motivation behind this fixture. Rwanda is the only team to have defeated us in this campaign, and we know the challenge they present.
“Many factors are aligned in our favor, and the nation should keep faith. Support the team, send positive energy – we notice it all.
“Don’t lose hope until the final whistle. Maybe this time, destiny will smile upon us, especially since we’re returning to Mbombela. Hopefully, we can rectify the mistakes from 12 years ago.
“For me, everything that has happened – including the points deduction – has a purpose. Now, it’s up to us to believe, fight, and prove our strength as a team,” concluded the three-time PSL champion.
Hugo Broos and Ronwen Hayden Williams of South Africa during the Afcon 2023 press conference in preperation for Nigeria and South Africa at Stade de la Paix on February 6, 2024 in Bouake, Cote d Ivore” width=”1024″ height=”680″ />The matches between Nigeria and Benin Republic will kick off simultaneously with South Africa’s showdown against Rwanda.
For the Super Eagles to secure their spot in the World Cup, they must overcome Benin Republic, while South Africa needs to defeat Rwanda on home ground at Mbombela Stadium.