Where to watch Nigeria vs. South Africa live stream, TV channel, lineups, prediction for World Cup qualifier – Sporting News
Nigeria and new coach Finidi George will host South Africa in a crucial World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7 with plenty on the line.
The Super Eagles need a win to overtake South Africa and improve their chances in Group C of the CAF qualifiers, with George ready to kickstart his time in charge.
Nigeria started their campaign with back-to-back 1-1 draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, placing them third in the standings.
South Africa, currently second, won 2-1 against Benin but lost 2-0 to early pacesetters Rwanda in a mixed start to their campaign as they try and make the 2026 tournament that will be held in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
George has already overseen two friendlies as interim boss, but will be hoping to avoid a repeat of the defensive frailties that marked those friendlies against Ghana and Mali when he takes on his first major test.
His side’s preparation has been far from ideal, though, with several players reportedly delayed in joining up with the camp due to travel difficulties caused by a national strike.
South Africa, coached by Hugo Broos, have been in impressive form of late, losing only five of their last 35 games — although when it mattered most they were beaten on penalties by Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations to exit at the semifinal stage.
Ahead of the next meeting of these familiar foes, The Sporting News looks at the key details for the game, including how to watch it across the world, kickoff times, and the latest lineup news.
This World Cup qualifier match takes place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria and kicks off on Friday, June 7 at 8:00 p.m. local time.
Here’s how that time translates across some of the major territories:
Here’s how to watch this international friendly match across selected areas of the world’s major regions:
For fans worldwide, Matchday 3 and Matchday 4 of the CAF qualifiers can be streamed on FIFA+ except in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Highlights of all matches will also be available on FIFA+ globally.
In India, fans can stream the game via FanCode, while in South Africa, it will be broadcast on SABC Plus and SABC Sport.
In Nigeria, catch the action on NTA Sports 24 and stream on Startimes Nigeria. For those with DSTV, the game will be available, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will broadcast it on their official YouTube platform.
If Nigeria vs. South Africa is not available to watch live in your location or if you’re traveling abroad, you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs offer a secure and private online connection, allowing you to bypass geographical restrictions to access your favourite streaming services from any device anywhere in the world.
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Nigeria have been dealt a big blow as they will miss Napoli striker Victor Osimhen and captain William Troost-Ekong. Ahmed Musa and Kenneth Omeruo are not in the squad, and Nathan Tella requested to be excused.
Ademola Lookman remains a key player with four goals in his last six games. Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface is back in the squad and may replace Osimhen, while Kelechi Iheanacho and Samuel Chukwueze pose threats.
Nigeria predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Nwabali (GK) — Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Tanimu, Bassey — Ndidi, Onyedika — Lookman, Iwobi, Chukwueze — Boniface.
Nigeria subs (9): TBC
South Africa face injury concerns too. Kaizer Chiefs’ Given Msimango replaces Grant Kekana. Newcomers include Orlando Pirates’ Nkosinathi Sibisi and Siyabonga Ngezana. However, key players like Ronwen Williams and Percy Tau are likely to be available.
South Africa predicted XI (4-2-3-1 right to left): Williams (GK) — Mobbie, Mvala, Ngezana, Modiba — Mokoena, Sithole — Tau, Zwane; Appollis — Rayners.
South Africa subs (9): TBC
Nigeria and South Africa are set to lock horns in what would be an intense and thrilling match. While Nigeria has a home advantage, South Africa will be eager for revenge following their AFCON semifinal heartache.
With players like Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface in the Nigerian camp, the absence of talisman Victor Osimhen could be compensated. Predicting a winner is tough, but Nigeria should get the job done.
Prediction: Nigeria 2-1 South Africa
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Vishal Bhawani is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition.
