FIFA and CAF have officially approved the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein to host the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between South Africa and Nigeria on September 9, 2025.
There had been earlier doubts about the stadium due to poor pitch conditions, but following recent inspections, both football governing bodies confirmed the venue met the required standards.
“Considering the encouraging progress observed on the pitch, both organisations have agreed that the matches will proceed as originally scheduled at the Free State Stadium,” FIFA and CAF said in a joint statement.
South Africa vs Nigeria: High-Stakes Clash
- South Africa currently lead the group with 13 points from 6 games.
- Nigeria, under coach Eric Chelle, sit in 4th place with 7 points, trailing Rwanda and Benin Republic.
With just a few games left, the Super Eagles must win their remaining matches, including this key clash against South Africa, to keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada alive.
Before hosting Nigeria, the stadium will also be used by Lesotho on September 5, as they lack a FIFA-approved venue.
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Go Super Eagles!🦅 💚