FIFA has confirmed that South Africa could secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup if they defeat Nigeria in their Group C qualifier today.

The highly anticipated clash will be staged in South Africa, where Hugo Broos’ men have the chance to make history. According to a post by the world football governing body on X, qualification is within reach:

> “Two more teams could secure @fifaworldcup 26 qualification today! Egypt will qualify if they beat Burkina Faso, while South Africa will qualify if they beat Nigeria, and Benin fail to beat Lesotho.”

Bafana Bafana currently sit top of Group C with 16 points, holding a six-point cushion over Nigeria. A win over the Super Eagles could see them book their ticket to the tournament, provided Lesotho deny Benin victory.

However, the qualification picture is not entirely straightforward. FIFA has yet to rule on a protest lodged by Lesotho, who claim South Africa fielded Teboho Mokoena in March despite his suspension for accumulated yellow cards. If upheld, South Africa could face a points deduction and a 3-0 defeat awarded to Lesotho, potentially altering the group standings.

All eyes will now be on Johannesburg as Bafana Bafana seek to seal their return to the world’s biggest football stage, while Nigeria fight to revive their campaign.