Byline: IDNN Sports Desk
South Africa coach Hugo Broos believes Friday’s clash against Lesotho could prove decisive in their bid to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Broos told journalists that victory in Bloemfontein would cement Bafana Bafana’s dominance in Group C, where they currently sit top with a five-point lead over Rwanda and a six-point cushion on Nigeria.
“If we win on Friday, the job is done. It is up to our opponents to stop us. We put pressure on them. We have to make sure we win,” Broos said.
The South African tactician argued that three points against Lesotho would shift the psychological battle to their main rivals. Nigeria, who face Rwanda on Saturday in Uyo, have struggled in the qualifiers and are yet to win at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in this series.
“If we win on Friday then they have to win on Saturday, and Rwanda cannot afford to lose if they are to keep their second position. It would be an ideal scenario. But we have to win,” he added.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles, led by new coach Eric Chelle, are under growing scrutiny after back-to-back draws left them chasing the group leaders. Only the top team in Group C qualifies automatically for the World Cup, with second place forced into the playoff route.
Analysts say Broos’ remarks are a calculated move to pile pressure on the Super Eagles, who cannot afford another slip at home.
The showdown sets up a tense weekend in Group C, with Bafana Bafana looking to clinch early supremacy and Nigeria facing a must-win tie against Rwanda to stay alive in the qualification race.