World Cup Qualifier: Nwabali confident Super Eagles will outshine Bafana despite pressure in Bloemfontein

Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s must-win clash, the 29-year-old downplayed any fears about South Africa’s attacking threats and stressed that the Super Eagles remain mentally prepared.

As Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has exuded confidence, insisting the team has enough quality to secure victory despite the high stakes.

The Chippa United shot-stopper has endured a difficult start to the season at club level, with his side sitting bottom of the PSL standings after collecting just one point from a possible 15 and conceding nine goals in five matches.

However, Nwabali arrives in Bloemfontein buoyed by his impressive performance on Saturday, where he kept a clean sheet as Nigeria edged Rwanda 1-0 in Uyo.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s must-win clash, the 29-year-old downplayed any fears about South Africa’s attacking threats and stressed that the Super Eagles remain mentally prepared.

“I feel like we have a very strong squad to match any country. I don’t see it as a really big thing to us, but I know we respect them. They are doing well, even top in the group. Even though it’s going to be a tough game tomorrow(Tuesday), but I feel like it’s going to come out strong. You know, every game has its own plan. You might be watching them against Zimbabwe, Rwanda and some other teams. But when it comes to Nigeria, it’s a different approach. Likewise, other countries coming to play against Nigeria. Like I said, it’s going to be a tough game tomorrow, but I’m really sure we’re going to win that game. I’m sure we’re going to win that game,” Nwabali told NFF TV.

The match, scheduled for 18:00 local time at the Free State Stadium, is being billed as a potential turning point in Group C, with South Africa leading the table while Nigeria sits third — six points adrift with three matches remaining.

Game plan

Despite Nwabali’s confidence, former Bafana Bafana midfielder Thabo Mngomeni believes Hugo Broos’ men can exploit weaknesses in the Nigerian defence by adopting an aggressive approach.

“They must attack Nigeria. It comes down to motivation. Believe in yourselves. I don’t want to think about losing tomorrow because it could be the end for us. We really need this win; it will set us on the right path. Losing will be devastating for me. Even a draw won’t help us. We need a win,” Mngomeni told KickOff.

The ex-Orlando Pirates star also singled out Nwabali as a potential vulnerability, citing his recent form in the PSL.

“The players shouldn’t feel intimidated by Nwabali. Look where Chippa are on the log table – at the bottom. If Bafana players are seeking motivation, they should remember that Nwabali is the same goalkeeper they score against week in and week out in the PSL,” he added.

With Victor Osimhen ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained against Rwanda, coach Eric Chelle will rely on the likes of Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze to provide attacking spark.

Meanwhile, lingering controversy surrounds the eligibility of Teboho Mokoena, who featured in South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March despite an alleged suspension due to yellow card accumulation.

FIFA is yet to issue a verdict, and a possible points deduction for Bafana Bafana remains under review.

For Nwabali, however, Nigeria’s focus is firmly on performance, not protests. The shot-stopper insists belief, unity, and execution will be key to breaking down Hugo Broos’ side and reigniting Nigeria’s qualification hopes.