Abuja, Nigeria — Former Nigeria international Ifeanyi Udeze has stated that South Africa’s Bafana Bafana are under increased pressure compared to the Super Eagles ahead of their Group C match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The two teams will meet in Bloemfontein on Tuesday for matchday eight of the qualifiers.
Udeze highlighted that Nigeria kept their qualification hopes alive with a gritty 1-0 win against Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday.
Now, the Super Eagles face a must-win encounter as they attempt to reduce Bafana Bafana’s lead atop the group to three points.
However, Udeze believes it is Bafana Bafana who have more to prove.
“South Africa are under greater pressure than the Super Eagles. They will be playing on home soil in front of their fans, aware that they top the group, and also have the three-point deduction looming,” Udeze said on Brila FM.
“For me, they bear more pressure, and I expect our players to come together as a unit and do everything they can to secure the result.”
Ahead of Tuesday’s critical game, Udeze noted the absence of injured star striker Victor Osimhen.
He urged the duo of Tolu Arokodare and Cyriel Dessers to seize the opportunity to prove they are worthy replacements.
“With Osimhen sidelined, this is a chance for Arokodare and Dessers to step up and demonstrate their capabilities,” he added.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | September 8, 2025
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