The Nigeria vs South Africa footballing rivalry extends past the pitch, formed by historic and political tensions.
Throughout apartheid, Nigeria was a staunch supporter of South Africa’s liberation, aiding the African Nationwide Congress (ANC) with army, monetary, and diplomatic help.
Nonetheless, ties soured in 1995 when Nelson Mandela condemned Nigeria’s execution of activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, resulting in diplomatic friction.
Soccer mirrored this divide at AFCON 1996, the place Nigeria, the defending champions, withdrew beneath army chief Sani Abacha’s orders. South Africa capitalized, successful their first and solely AFCON title.
Since then, Nigeria have dominated, notably eliminating Bafana Bafana in 2000, 2019, and 2023. Their battles proceed to form certainly one of Africa’s most compelling soccer rivalries.
Nigeria vs South Africa H2H
Nigeria vs South Africa newest rating
Nigeria 1-1 South Africa [Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (46′) – Themba Zwane (29′)]
2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier
Godswill Akpbaio Stadium
Nigeria dominated possession however struggled to interrupt down a resilient South African protection. Each groups had near-equal alternatives, however essential interventions from goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Ronwen Williams ensured the spoils have been shared.
Nigeria vs South Africa lineups
Nigeria Beginning XI:
Stanley Nwabali, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi (Raphael Onyedika 81’), Brilliant Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Tanimu, Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alex Iwobi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Alhassan Yusuf 61’), Kelechi Iheanacho (Samuel Chukwueze 67’), Paul Onuachu (Terem Moffi 80’), Ademola Lookman
South Africa Beginning XI:
Ronwen Williams, Mothobi Mvala, Siyabonga Ngezana, Aubrey Modiba, Khuliso Mudau, Yaya Sithole, Teboho Mokoena, Elias Mokwana (Oswin Appollis 71’), Percy Tau (Thapelo Morena 79’), Iqraam Rayners (Lyle Foster 71’), Themba Zwane (Bathusi Jurry Aubaas 88’)
5 most up-to-date outcomes of the respective groups
Nigeria vs South Africa: Subsequent match
The Tremendous Eagles and Bafana Bafana will face off once more within the return fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Date: September 25, 2025 (tentative)
Venue: Cape City Stadium (tbc)
This encounter may very well be decisive in figuring out qualification, with each nations eager to safe a ticket to the World Cup in america, Mexico, and Canada.
Nigeria will probably be trying to enhance on their away consequence, whereas South Africa goals to leverage residence benefit in what guarantees to be a high-stakes conflict.
