Zimbabwe has announced that their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa will now take place in Rwanda instead of South Africa— a development that could impact Nigeria’s struggling qualification prospects, according to Soccernet.ng.
The Warriors, who continue to be prohibited by FIFA from holding matches due to insufficient stadiums in their country, had originally played two of their ‘home’ games in South Africa. Zimbabwe’s initial home match versus Nigeria took place in Rwanda, while the following games against Lesotho and Benin Republic were assessed in South Africa.
Nonetheless, for the potentially crucial match against Bafana Bafana on October 5, Zimbabwe has obtained authorization from CAF to hold the event in Rwanda instead, according to Igihe.
The shift comes at an important moment, not only for Zimbabwe but also for Nigeria.
The Super Eagles occupy the fourth position in Group C, having seven points — six behind the leaders South Africa. Any mistake from Hugo Broos could allow Nigeria to re-enter the qualification race.
Zimbabwe sit at the bottom of the group with five points but are still mathematically in contention.