Free State Stadium cleared for Bafana’s showdown with Nigeria

The 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier between Bafana Bafana and Nigeria will go ahead at Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein as originally scheduled, following a successful pitch inspection that eased recent concerns.

The high-stakes clash is set for 9 September at 6pm, and had been under review due to doubts over the playing surface’s readiness after a harsh winter. However, those fears have now been put to rest.

In a joint statement addressed to Safa CEO Lydia Monyepao, Fifa and CAF confirmed the venue’s approval, citing “encouraging progress observed on the pitch” as the decisive factor.

“Considering the encouraging progress observed on the pitch, both organisations have agreed that the matches will proceed as originally scheduled at the Free State Stadium,” the statement read.

Bafana Bafana are currently in camp in Johannesburg, sharpening their focus for a pivotal double-header. First up is Lesotho on 5 September, followed by the much-anticipated clash with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

With the green light officially granted, all eyes now turn to Bloemfontein — a city rich in football heritage — where the pitch and the players will share the spotlight in a match that could define South Africa’s World Cup journey.