With the significant 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Bafana Bafana and Nigeria drawing closer, here’s the latest update on the ongoing selection process for the host city.
South Africa are seemingly the favourites to win Group C as they lead with 13 points after six matches. They are five points ahead of second-placed Rwanda.
Meanwhile, Nigeria, whom Bafana will face on 8 September, are currently in fourth place, having accumulated seven points from their six games played.
SAFA eThekwini president Mazwi Mkhize has revealed that the KZN Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, has reiterated the province’s request to SAFA president Danny Jordaan to bring this clash to the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Last year, Jordaan revealed that eThekwini Municipality had submitted an early bid to host the high-profile clash against the Super Eagles.
KZN SPORTS MINISTER REITERATES PROVINCE’S REQUEST TO HOST BAFANA VS NIGERIA TIE
“We wish to host that game because this is one game where we would see a huge attendance like that of the Nedbank Cup final between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates,” said Mkhize during the interview with FARPost.
“But you have to bid now because other provinces want the game as well. The rights to host the match go to the highest bidder.
“If a government from another province is saying I’ve got these millions, that’s where the thing is. But the Nigeria clash, we want it here.
“Just a few days ago, when we went to launch the Standard Bank games, the MEC [of Sports, Arts and Culture in KZN], Mr Khawula, was there. He emphasised to Danny Jordaan that we want the Nigeria match in Durban. So, when the government is involved, it’s easy.
“But all in all, that’s the game that we earmarked when we heard that Nigeria would come to SA. We want them to play at Moses Mabhida, you’ll see the crowd.
“But also, it will depend on what other provinces put on the table.”
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