Nigeria cannot have more points — South Africa boss Hugo Broos speaks on Super Eagles WCQ hopes

Hugo Broos is confident that South Africa hold the upper hand over the Benin Republic and Nigeria's Super Eagles in the final rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers this month.

The current standings in Group C have the Benin Republic currently at the top with 14 points and a superior goal difference, with South Africa also on 14 points after being hit with a three-point deduction by FIFA.

Trailing them are Nigeria and Rwanda, both sitting in third and fourth position, respectively, with 11 points each.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of South Africa’s crucial fixture against Zimbabwe on Friday, the Belgian tactician outlined his team's scenario. Broos emphasized the importance of their upcoming match, stating, “That game on Friday is maybe the most important.”

Broos believes that securing a victory on Friday puts the Bafana Bafana in the driving seat for the final World Cup ticket.

He then explained his rationale for doubting Nigeria's and Benin's chances, citing the maximum points they can reach.

"If we can win that game, you have 17 points," Broos told reporters.

“Nigeria, if they win their two games, can only have 17 points, the same thing for Rwanda, but 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.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria's Super Eagles will be keen to win both games by a large margin to give themselves a chance of progressing as group leaders.

Head coach Eric Chelle has picked an attacking team, and there is cautious optimism that the 2026 World Cup ticket is not beyond reach.