2026 WCQs: Broos insists South Africa will qualify ahead of Nigeria

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos is confident in Bafana Bafana’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting his side holds the advantage over Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Friday’s clash with Zimbabwe, the Belgian manager described the fixture as “the most important” in their qualification journey.

Broos confident of qualification path

Broos explained that victory against Zimbabwe would lift South Africa to 17 points, a tally he believes will be enough to stay ahead of rivals Nigeria and Rwanda.

“That game on Friday is maybe the most important,” Broos told reporters. “If we can win that game, you have 17 points. Nigeria, if they win their two games, they can only have 17 points, same thing for Rwanda.”

He also downplayed the threat of current group leaders Benin, saying they are unlikely to win both remaining matches against Nigeria and Rwanda.

“Benin cannot win their two games because they play against Nigeria and Rwanda. Therefore, the game on Friday is so important for us to win it,” he added.

Bafana Bafana unshaken despite setbacks

Despite points deduction recently for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho, South Africa remain second in their group, three points above Nigeria.

Broos dismissed any concerns about a loss of momentum, maintaining full confidence in his squad.

“There are no doubts, there have never been doubts from my side,” he said. “I will try to transfer that to the group tomorrow at our meeting, like always. I believe in this group.”