South Africa’s men’s national team, Bafana Bafana, are chasing their first FIFA World Cup qualification since hosting in 2010 — and their first by merit since 1998.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria: Why this game matters
Their next test is a huge one: Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 9 September 2025.
Leaders South Africa currently sit top of Group C with 16 points from seven matches. Rivals Nigeria are third with 10 points.
Victory for Bafana would push them to 19 points and put qualification firmly in reach, even if they face a possible three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player earlier in the campaign.
South Africa’s form and team news
Bafana Bafana head into the clash full of confidence after a 3-0 win over Lesotho.
Coach Hugo Broos, however, has had to reshuffle his defence. Right-back Nyiko Mobbie suffered a serious eye socket fracture in that game and has been ruled out after surgery.
He is replaced in the squad by Thabiso Monyane.
Forward Nkota and winger Oswin Appollis were among the scorers against Lesotho, and striker Lyle Foster has stressed that the team are “not under pressure” despite the stakes.
Injured defender Thabo Moloisane is expected to recover in time.
Nigeria’s challenge
Nigeria, known as the Super Eagles, come into the match after a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda.
Their main concern is star striker Victor Osimhen, who was forced off with an ankle injury in that game. His fitness will be key — Osimhen scored twice against Bafana earlier in the qualifiers.
Coach Eric Chelle admitted it was “too early to say” if the former African Footballer of the Year will be fit.
Without him, Nigeria will rely on their depth, which includes top talents from European leagues.
Head-to-head record
History does not favour South Africa. Since 2004, the two teams have met 13 times:
- Nigeria won 6
- South Africa won 1
- 6 draws
In their last five meetings, Bafana have managed one win, three draws, and one loss.
Nigeria, by contrast, have four wins and one draw from their last five games across all competitions.
How to watch Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria
- Date: Tuesday, 9 September 2025
- Kick-off: 18:00 (local time) / 18:00 (SAST)
- Venue: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein
- Broadcast: SuperSport Variety 3, SABC Sport (TV and streaming)
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria score prediction
Bafana have home advantage and momentum after their Lesotho win.
Nigeria, however, remain a dangerous opponent with more recent success in head-to-head meetings. If Osimhen is absent, Nigeria’s attack may lose its sharpness, while South Africa will look to exploit their defensive resilience and the home crowd.
Score prediction: South Africa 1 – 1 Nigeria.
A draw would keep Bafana top of Group C and leave them on course for World Cup qualification.