2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Group C race wide open ahead final round of games – Nigeria legend Chigozie Agbim

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim has weighed in on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying race, declaring that the top spot in Group C remains very much up for grabs following South Africa’s draw with Zimbabwe.

Bafana Bafana were held to a frustrating 0-0 stalemate by the Warriors on Friday at Moses Mabhida Stadium, leaving the group standings finely poised.

Meanwhile, Nigeria secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium, moving to within a single point of group leaders Benin, who currently have 17 points.

The decisive matches come this Tuesday, with the Super Eagles set to face Benin in Uyo, while South Africa take on Rwanda. A convincing win for Nigeria could see them leapfrog their rivals and claim the automatic qualification spot.

Conversely, a South African victory over Rwanda would secure Benos Broos’ side a place at the World Cup. Benin, for their part, can also guarantee qualification with a win over Nigeria—or even a draw, depending on South Africa’s result.

Despite the challenging scenario, Agbim remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances.

“For now, yes, it looks like the coast is fairly clearer for the Super Eagles, the win against Lesotho and South Africa’s draw against Zimbabwe have somehow thrown the group race open” Agbim said, according to Pulse Sports Nigeria.

“It looks like the Super Eagles now have their destiny in their own hands, so they must give it one final push on Tuesday in Uyo when they face Benin Republic.

“Who would have believed that South Africa would struggle to get a draw against Zimbabwe at home? That’s a clear pointer that this last game of the qualifiers will be tough, no matter who’s playing at home.

“Benin Republic are very much in contention for the sole qualification ticket, and they have a former Nigeria coach who knows our players well,” he added.

“The Eagles must win first before thinking about group leadership or second-place permutations. I’m optimistic Nigeria has what it takes to win and make their seventh World Cup appearance a reality.”