South Africa’s head coach, Hugo Broos, has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to regain their form and return to winning ways next month when the 2026 World Cup qualifiers resume.
The three-time Africa champions have endured a disappointing start to their campaign, failing to secure a victory in their first four matches.
The Super Eagles secured draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa before suffering a surprising 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic. This disappointing run has left them with just three points, four points behind group leaders South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin.
With only the top team earning automatic qualification, Nigeria finds itself in a precarious position, sitting second from bottom in the six-team group. To revive their chances, they must start winning immediately.
The Nigeria Football Federation has appointed Franco-Malian coach Eric Chelle, who led Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, in hopes of revitalizing the team’s campaign.
However, ahead of the crucial fixtures, the Super Eagles have been dealt a blow with injuries to key players, including William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika, all of whom are doubtful for the upcoming matches.
Despite the injury setbacks, Chelle has a squad filled with attacking talent, including Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman.
Although Nigeria has faced challenges, Broos remains confident that the Super Eagles have the quality to turn things around.
“I am surprised that Nigeria is four points behind us because they have too much quality,” Broos told ScoreNigeria.
“I believe they will come back by the next window (March). All the teams in our group are still in the running to qualify for the World Cup.”
Nigeria’s path to redemption kicks off next month with crucial matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, where victories will be vital to keeping their qualification hopes alive.
Meanwhile, South Africa will host Lesotho on March 17 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane before facing Benin Republic at the same venue, with the Cheetahs designated as the home team.
As the Super Eagles battle to regain their footing, they will also be hoping for a slip-up from their rivals to strengthen their chances of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
