Permit Granted: Nigeria Arrives in South Africa For High-Stakes World Cup Qualifier

Permit Granted: Nigeria Arrives in South Africa For High-Stakes World Cup Qualifier

By Niyi Busari 

The Super Eagles of Nigeria departed for South Africa on Sunday morning ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifier (Matchday 8) clash with Bafana Bafana, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The journey follows days of uncertainty after South African aviation authorities initially withheld a landing permit for the Nigerian chartered flight. However, the issue appears to have been resolved, with the Nigerian contingent now en route and expected to land in Johannesburg on Sunday afternoon.

The team is scheduled to hold their final training session on Monday before Tuesday’s high-stakes encounter at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, which kicks off at 16:00 GMT.

Current Group C Standings:

South Africa – 16 points (1st)

Benin Republic – 11 points (2nd)

Nigeria – 10 points (3rd)

Rwanda – 9 points

Lesotho – 6 points

Zimbabwe – 4 points

Nigeria moved up to third place following their 1–0 win over Rwanda on Saturday in Uyo, a result that has kept their World Cup hopes alive. With only the group winners guaranteed a ticket to the global finals in 2026, Tuesday's clash is a must-win for the Super Eagles if they hope to overtake the leaders and remain in contention.

Team Update:

Nigeria will be without talismanic striker Victor Osimhen, who is sidelined with injury. Manager Eric Chelle is expected to make tactical adjustments in his absence, with Tolu Arokodare (Saturday’s match-winner) likely to lead the line.