The Super Eagles of Nigeria touched down in Bloemfontein on Sunday evening ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa. The team received a vibrant welcome at Bloemfontein Airport, led by Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Tope Ajayi, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeyinka Adeboye.
The delegation, which included 22 players and technical staff, arrived aboard a chartered ValueJet aircraft after a refueling stop in Luanda, Angola. Notable absentees included star striker Victor Osimhen, who sustained a shin injury during Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday.
Members of the Nigerian community in South Africa turned out in large numbers, dressed in traditional attire and performing cultural dances to celebrate the team’s arrival. The welcoming party also featured top officials from the National Sports Commission, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and former Super Eagles captains Nwankwo Kanu and Victor Ikpeba.
The squad is scheduled to hold an official training session at Toyota Stadium on Monday evening, as preparations intensify for Tuesday’s match. With South Africa leading Group C and Nigeria trailing in third place, the outcome of this fixture could significantly impact Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
