The Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein has received approval from FIFA and CAF to host next week’s World Cup qualifying match between South Africa’s Bafana Bafana and the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Uncertainty had surrounded the venue after concerns were raised about its poor pitch conditions. However, following fresh inspections, the two governing bodies confirmed the stadium had met the required standards.
“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,” FIFA and CAF said in a joint statement.
Before facing Nigeria, the venue will host Lesotho’s home game on September 5, since the Mountain Kingdom lacks a FIFA-approved stadium.
Bafana Bafana will then lock horns with the Super Eagles in a decisive matchday eight encounter on September 9.
South Africa lead the group with 13 points from six matches. Rwanda and Benin Republic trail with 8 points each, while Nigeria sit fourth on 7 points.
The Super Eagles must secure maximum points in their upcoming fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa to keep alive their hopes of reaching a seventh FIFA World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
