South Africa coach, Hugo Broos, believes Bafana Bafana can secure an early ticket to next year’s FIFA World Cup if they overcome Nigeria’s Super Eagles in their next qualifier.
The South Africans strengthened their campaign on Friday with a convincing 3-0 victory over Lesotho, a result that lifted them to 16 points and widened the gap between them and Nigeria to nine points.
The Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda on Saturday in Uyo.
In another group clash, Benin Republic edged past Zimbabwe 1-0 to move into second spot with 11 points, keeping their qualification hopes alive.
With the current standings, Bafana Bafana could confirm their place at the global showpiece if they defeat Nigeria, provided both Rwanda and Benin Republic also slip up in their remaining fixtures.
Speaking after Friday’s triumph, Broos expressed optimism about his team’s position.
“We won against Lesotho today (Friday). And now we will see next week against Nigeria,” Broos said.
“If God is with us, then we can maybe qualify for the World Cup by next Tuesday, and that stays as the target for us.
“We are in a good situation, we have everything in our own hands, so it’s up to us to now finish it.”