South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has admitted he will be counting on Nigeria’s Super Eagles to do Bafana Bafana a huge favour by defeating Benin Republic in their final Group C match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Following a goalless draw against Zimbabwe, South Africa slipped to second place in the group standings. At the same time, the Benin Republic climbed to the summit with 17 points after a 1–0 victory over Rwanda.

Broos’ men now sit on 15 points, just ahead of Nigeria in third place with 14 points, making Tuesday’s fixtures decisive for all three nations.

Speaking to Sport TV after the Zimbabwe stalemate, the Belgian tactician maintained optimism that South Africa’s qualification dream remains alive, but admitted their fate may rest in Nigeria’s hands.

“We have to play just like today and try to win the game. Then try to see what happens if everything is as it has to be. Maybe Benin lose in Nigeria or maybe it comes down to goal difference. I don’t have a good view on that at the moment. But we just have to go for the victory against Rwanda and then see what happens,” Broos said.

With one game left in the group, all eyes will be on Uyo, where the Super Eagles host Benin Republic next Tuesday. A Nigerian victory could open the door for South Africa, provided they defeat Rwanda in their final match.

Both fixtures promise to bring high drama as three African heavyweights battle for a single automatic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.