Only Nigeria can save our World Cup dream – Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos

South Africa’s head coach, Hugo Broos, says his team is now depending on Nigeria to defeat the Benin Republic in the final Group C match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday.

Broos made the comment after Bafana Bafana were held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe in Durban on Friday. The result left South Africa second in the group with 15 points, two points behind leaders Benin Republic, while Nigeria sit in third place with 14 points.

The veteran Belgian coach admitted he was disappointed that his players could not find the net against Zimbabwe despite their strong performance. According to him, the team must now focus on winning their last match against Rwanda and hope that Nigeria can do them a favour by defeating Benin Republic.

“This is not a good situation for us. We didn’t get the result we wanted, but I can’t be angry with my players. I’m just very disappointed that we couldn’t score the goal we needed,” Broos told SABC Sport.

“Now, we must prepare for the next game against Rwanda, try to win it, and see what happens. If Nigeria beat Benin, maybe the table will turn in our favour. That’s football anything can happen.”

With only one round of matches left, Group C remains wide open. Benin Republic lead with 17 points, followed by South Africa with 15, and Nigeria close behind with 14.

The final round will decide which team qualifies directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the second-placed team will hope for a playoff chance.

The Super Eagles will host Benin Republic in Uyo, while South Africa face Rwanda at home  two matches that could define the fate of all three nations.

Broos urged his players to stay focused and play with the same determination they showed against Zimbabwe, reminding them that hope is not lost.

“We just need to give our best one more time,” he said. “Football can be unpredictable  one result can change everything.”