South Africa coach, Hugo Broos, believes his team is within touching distance of sealing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with next week’s clash against Nigeria looming as a potential decider.
South Africa swept aside Lesotho 3-0 on Friday to move nine points clear of the Super Eagles in Group C. The victory, which pushed Bafana Bafana to 16 points, has put them in control of their own destiny ahead of Tuesday’s showdown.
“If God is with us, then we can maybe qualify for the World Cup by next Tuesday, and that stays as the target for us,” Broos told reporters after the emphatic win.
He added, “We are in a good situation, we have everything in our own hands, so it’s up to us to now finish it.”
While the qualification picture remains in their favour, South Africa still needs results elsewhere to go their way. Both Benin Republic and Rwanda would have to drop points for Broos’ men to confirm their ticket to North America next week.
Meanwhile, in the Nigerian camp, goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye has addressed a peculiar issue that has followed him off the pitch.
The 25-year-old shot-stopper, currently training with the Super Eagles in Uyo ahead of Saturday’s clash with Rwanda, has often been mistaken for Manchester United and Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana due to their striking resemblance.
“To the esteemed public, I wish to clarify a pressing matter regarding my identity. My name is Adebayo Adeleye, and I am a Nigerian goalkeeper,” Adeleye was quoted by @OgaNlaMedia on X.
“Unfortunately, some individuals have been mistakenly referring to me as Andre Onana, the renowned Cameroonian goalkeeper. I kindly request that the public refrain from associating me with Andre Onana, as we are two distinct individuals with different nationalities and careers.”
Adeleye, who plays his trade with Greek Super League side Volos, is expected to play a key role as Nigeria looks to keep their qualification hopes alive against Rwanda at 5 p.m. local time on September 6.
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