South Africa head coach, Hugo Broos, has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to rediscover their form and return to winning ways when the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resume next month.
The three-time African champions have endured a disappointing start to their qualification campaign, failing to secure a victory in four matches. The Eagles managed draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa before suffering a shock 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic, leaving them with just three points — four points behind group leaders South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin.
With only the top team guaranteed automatic qualification, Nigeria currently sits second from bottom in the six-team group, making their next fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe crucial for their qualification hopes.
To revive their chances, the Nigeria Football Federation has appointed Franco-Malian coach, Eric Chelle, who led Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. However, the team faces a series of injury setbacks, with key players William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika all doubtful for the upcoming matches.
Despite Nigeria’s struggles, Broos remains optimistic about their chances.
“I am surprised that Nigeria is four points behind us because they have too much quality,” Broos told *ScoreNigeria*. “I believe they will come back by the next window. All the teams in our group are still in the running to qualify for the World Cup.”
Chelle will rely on attacking talents like Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, to inspire a turnaround.
The Super Eagles must secure vital victories in their next matches to revive their qualification hopes, while hoping for slip-ups from their group rivals.
