2026 World Cup qualifiers: Big boost for Finidi’s troops as South Africa lose key player ahead of Nigeria clash

South Africa coach Hugo Broos will be without Grant Kekana in their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria on Friday,  Soccernet.ng reports.

The Bafana Bafana lock horns with Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday as the struggle for the 2026 World Cup ticket resumes. Nigeria sit third in their group, while South Africa sit second, and a loss for any of the sides could be disastrous for them.

Both countries already met this year, in the semi-finals of 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d'Ivoire, and it was an enthralling tie. After the Super Eagles led for most of the game, South Africa equalized just before the end.

The game pushed into extra-time, and Nigeria eventually sealed it 4-2 via penalty shootout to progress to the final.

This time, it will not be any easier for the Super Eagles, as South Africa are notoriously stubborn whenever they play Nigeria. However, South Africa have suffered a let-down, as their star defender Kekana has been ruled out of the game because of hamstring injury. The Mamelodi Sundowns star was crucial at the last AFCON, registering five appearances for the Bafana Bafana. In Kekana's place coach Broos has called up Kaizer Chiefs defender Spiwe Given Msimango.

Nigeria boss Finidi George has his own problems though, as Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong will miss the game through injuries.