“New leaf of Bafana Bafana” – Everything Ronwen Williams said ahead of Super Eagles clash

Super Eagles of Nigeria will face South Africa's Bafana Bafana in what has been labelled a do-or-die encounter in a bid to secure the 2026 World Cup ticket…

South Africa captain Ronwen Williams says Bafana Bafana are edging closer to ending their long winless run against Nigeria as both sides prepare for a decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein.

The 2013 AFCON champions revived their World Cup hopes when they defeated Rwanda at the Uyo Stadium on Saturday. Elsewhere, the Southern Africans thrashed Lesotho with a score of 3-0.

What the Bafana Bafana star said vs Nigeria

Speaking ahead of the match at the Toyota Stadium, Williams acknowledged Nigeria’s dominance in the head-to-head record but believes his side’s recent performances show progress.

“That’s the history I’ve got to have. We haven’t beaten them (Nigeria) in a long time. Yes, we’ve had positive results—I mean, going away to Nigeria last year, it’s so difficult. And to come out here with a good result, playing the way we are playing. We know for sure we are growing as a team. We are getting closer and closer to beating them; we all saw it at AFCON, and we saw it when we played them away in Nigeria. Hopefully, tomorrow, we can go a step further and change the narrative. If you look at the head-to-head, obviously, they’ve got the bragging rights. Hopefully tomorrow we can show them that there is a new leaf of Bafana Bafana and that Amapiano guys can be happy.”

Super Eagles' next match vs South Africa: What's at stake?

The fixture carries weight in Group C, where South Africa lead with 16 points while Nigeria sit third with 10 points, behind Benin.

Only the group winners are assured of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, with the four best runners-up advancing to playoffs.

A massive showdown in Bloemfontein is on the horizon! #Naija4theWin #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/r8WPTRnIYh

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 8, 2025

Nigeria arrive in Bloemfontein without star striker Victor Osimhen, who was ruled out through injury after the win over Rwanda.

Bafana Bafana, however, are also missing key defenders through injury, which would force coach Hugo Broos to reshuffle his squad.

The outcome in Bloemfontein could prove pivotal, with Nigeria desperate for maximum points to stay in contention and South Africa looking to tighten their grip on top spot.