FIFA and the Confederation of African Football, CAF, have officially approved the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa, as the venue for the upcoming World Cup qualifying clash between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana.
There had been uncertainty surrounding the hosting of South Africa’s qualifiers after concerns were raised about the poor pitch condition at the Free State Stadium. Following fresh inspections, however, both governing bodies confirmed the venue met required standards.
“Considering the encouraging progress observed on the pitch, both organisations have agreed that the matches will proceed as originally scheduled at the Free State Stadium,” a joint statement from FIFA and CAF read.
Before the Nigeria–South Africa showdown, Lesotho will also play their World Cup qualifying fixture at the same venue on Friday, September 5, since the country lacks a FIFA-standard approved stadium.
The highly anticipated clash between Bafana Bafana and the Super Eagles is set for Monday, September 9, in what is considered a must-win encounter for Nigeria.
South Africa currently sit at the top of the group with 13 points from six matches. Nigeria, under coach Eric Chelle, are in fourth place with seven points—one behind Rwanda and Benin Republic, who occupy second and third spots respectively.
To keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada alive, the Super Eagles must secure maximum points from their remaining fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa.
