South Africa head coach Hugo Broos is confident that his side can secure a 2026 World Cup ticket ahead of Nigeria and other contenders in Group C, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Bafana Bafana currently sit second in Group C with seven points, trailing leaders Rwanda only on goal difference.
Nigeria's Super Eagles, meanwhile, are in a disappointing fifth place with three points, four behind South Africa.
Broos, as reported by Soccernet, reflected on his team's progress, saying: "It doesn't mean that we have to now think that we are where we have to be. No. But little by little we are becoming a very good team."
The coach expressed confidence in his team's ability to qualify for the World Cup. "That will give us the confidence that we need for the next thing we have to do, which is qualify for the World Cup. But I'm confident that we can do it."
South Africa have not lost a match since their semifinal exit against Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. They drew 1-1 with Nigeria in their last World Cup qualifier, a game where they nearly claimed all three points.
Broos plans to build on South Africa's Africa Cup of Nations momentum to navigate the World Cup qualifiers. The coach expects to collect maximum points in their next matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, believing this will secure their ticket.
In contrast, Nigeria face a challenging road ahead. The Super Eagles must win all their remaining fixtures while relying on other teams in the group to disrupt South Africa's campaign.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun