Hugo Broos remains hopeful of South Africa edging Nigeria to 2026 World Cup spot

By Wale Mustapha

Hugo Broos, Head Coach of South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, has expressed confidence that his side can secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite tough competition from Nigeria.

Currently, South Africa sits joint top of Group C in the qualifiers with seven points, alongside Rwanda, who hold the top position on goal difference.

In contrast, Nigeria is struggling in fifth place with just three points from their first four matches, leaving them with an uphill battle, especially with six games still to play.

Broos, who guided Bafana Bafana to a strong finish in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers by topping their group, believes the team can build on this success as they push for the 2026 World Cup.

“It doesn’t mean that we should feel complacent or think we’ve already made it. No. But little by little, we are becoming a very good team,” Broos stated. “That gives us the confidence we need for the next challenge, which is to qualify for the World Cup.”

He continued: “I’m confident we can do it. If South Africa qualifies for the World Cup, it will be because we have quality; we have a good team. We can do it. But we still have work to do,” Broos added, as quoted by SABC Sports.

South Africa has not lost a match since their semifinal exit against Nigeria at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire. In their most recent World Cup qualifier, they played to a 1-1 draw against Nigeria in Uyo.

The qualifiers will resume in March 2025, with South Africa set to host Lesotho, while Nigeria will travel to Rwanda.