FIFA WCQ: Here is how Nigeria can gain top spot and displace South Africa
AFNEWS reporter
Sep 05, 2025
FIFA WCQ: Here is how Nigeria can gain top spot and displace South Africa
Nigeria are currently fourth in their qualifying group, but can displace South Africa as group leaders after this window.
READ ALSO: Why I Have Not Sworn In Aaron Uzodike - Abia Speaker, Emeruwa
Nigeria's Super Eagles can still take control of their destiny in their World Cup qualifying group, should results go their way.
Super Eagles eyeing top spot ahead of games against Rwanda and South Africa
The Super Eagles currently face an uphill task of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as they sit in fourth place in their World Cup qualifying group.
READ ALSO: Ex BBNAIJA: "Stop Walking On The Streets Late At NightÔÇØ - Angel JB Smith Warns
Eric Chelle's men are currently six points behind group leaders, South Africa, who they also face in this qualifying window.
READ ALSO: Chelsea finances: Blues announce biggest pre-tax loss of any club in Premier League history
But despite the unpleasant situation they find themselves in, the three-time African champions can still turn things around ahead of next month's break if results go their way.
READ ALSO: How Man Was Kidnapped In Broad Daylight At Bank Road, Umuahia
Nigeria face Rwanda on Saturday in Uyo before taking on the Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
READ ALSO: Eddie Howe Under Pressure as Newcastle Face Summer Exodus and Uncertain Future
Both teams are currently above Nigeria, with Rwanda sitting just a point ahead of the Super Eagles.
READ ALSO: Chalobah Signs New Long-Term Chelsea Contract | READ DETAILS
However, Chelle's team can overtake the Amavubi if they beat them on Saturday. This will lift Nigeria to 10 points ahead of the game against South Africa.
However, the Super Eagles will also need Lesotho to beat South Africa before they take on the Bafana Bafana on Tuesday.
READ ALSO: ABOMINATION: How herdsmen raped monarch's wife in Benue
Should that happen, the Super Eagles can take control of their destiny if they beat Hugo Broos' men on Tuesday,
READ ALSO: Why Tinubu Should Be The Next President - Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari
Although they also need Benin to drop points in one of their games against Lesotho and Zimbabwe to take the top spot, they will still control their fate if these scenarios play out, as they host Benin in their last qualifying game.
How Nigeria's Super Eagles found themselves in this situation
The Super Eagles only have themselves to blame for the situation they find themselves in right now.
READ ALSO: Roberto De Zerbi: Tottenham in talks with ex-Brighton boss about taking over as head coach
Chelle's men have won just one game from six matches, with that sole win coming against Rwanda away from home.
They have failed to win a home game in the qualifying series, despite playing Benin, Lesotho and South Africa.
Related Stories
David Raya is the best goalkeeper in the world, says Arsenal team-mate Kai Havertz after Sporting heroics
Sandro Tonali will choose Manchester United if they secure Champions League football
Chelsea finances: Blues announce biggest pre-tax loss of any club in Premier League history
Who has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup? Who do England and Scotland play? Could Lionel Messi face Cristiano Ronaldo?
Eddie Howe Under Pressure as Newcastle Face Summer Exodus and Uncertain Future
Roberto De Zerbi: Tottenham in talks with ex-Brighton boss about taking over as head coach
""
— AFNEWS reporter