National Teams
South African envoy, NFF meet in Abuja over visa clearance for World Cup qualifier
By Dayo Awoniyi
The Minister Plenipotentiary at the High Commission of the Republic of South Africa to Nigeria, Her Excellency Lindi Mminele, on Monday paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Secretariat in Abuja, as preparations intensify for the high-profile 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana.
Mminele was warmly received by the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi (MON), alongside the Director of Communications, Dr. Ademola Olajire, the Head of Protocol, Mr. Emmanuel Ayanbunmi, and Protocol Officer, Prince Bamaiyi Usman.
At the heart of discussions was the facilitation of entry visas for Nigeria’s delegation to South Africa ahead of the much-anticipated clash scheduled for Tuesday, 9 September 2025, in Bloemfontein.
The diplomatic engagement underscores the importance of smooth logistics between the two nations, given their long-standing football rivalry that has spanned decades and captured global attention.
The Nigeria–South Africa fixture has often produced fiery contests, from memorable clashes at the Africa Cup of Nations to intense World Cup qualifiers.
With both sides eyeing a ticket to the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the upcoming encounter in Bloemfontein is already being billed as a potential Group decider.
NFF officials expressed optimism that the South African High Commission would expedite visa clearances to ensure the Super Eagles travel seamlessly and focus fully on preparation for the clash.
