Former Nigerian striker Brown Ideye has voiced his concerns over the Super Eagles’ fading hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite a twist in CAF Group C after South Africa was hit with a three-point deduction.

The punishment came after Bafana Bafana fielded Teboho Mokoena, who should have been suspended for accumulated yellow cards, in a 2-0 win against Lesotho back in March. The sanction dropped South Africa from first to second place, lifting Benin Republic to the top of the group on goal difference and keeping Nigeria’s faint hopes alive.

Currently sitting third with 11 points, Nigeria must win their last two fixtures – including a crucial showdown with Benin on October 14 – to finish with 17 points. Even then, their fate will depend on whether South Africa or Benin stumble along the way.

Sharing his frustration on X, Ideye lamented the situation:

> “Not in our hands anymore. Just win these two games and pray South Africa drop points, which I don’t see them doing. How did we get here? That’s the question I ask myself sometimes.”

With everything on the line, the Super Eagles face a decisive challenge where victory alone might not be enough – destiny now lies beyond their control.