Bafana Bafana Star Claims Pressure Is on Super Eagles Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifier
Bafana Bafana forward Lyle Foster insists that the pressure rests with Nigeria ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier clash at Free State Stadium on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
Both sides enter this crucial encounter buoyed by recent wins — Bafana Bafana secured a commanding 3-0 victory against Lesotho on Friday, while the Super Eagles edged out Rwanda 1-0 at home on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
Foster, who was one of the scorers for Bafana Bafana against Lesotho, also had a good game in the last match with his club Burnley before travelling for the World Cup qualifiers.
The former Orlando Pirates striker scored against Manchester United at Old Trafford but was unable to lead the Clarets to victory as they suffered a 3-2 loss.
Foster insists pressure is on Nigeria
Foster explained in an interview ahead of the game that the pressure is on Nigeria, as they have no other choice but to win the game in South Africa. A draw would put the Super Eagles out of contention for qualifying for the competition next year.
“I don’t really feel the pressure is on us,” Foster explained.
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“Right now, we’re in the position we aimed for within the group, and that’s a positive place to be. The real pressure lies with the teams chasing us, but that doesn’t mean we can ease up.”
The Burnley forward emphasised the importance of maintaining their winning mindset as they prepare to face Nigeria.
“Our focus should remain steady, taking it one game at a time with humility. The pressure is definitely on those trying to catch up to us, not on us,” he added.
“We’ve made a strong start, but the key now is to keep pushing forward and ensure we secure qualification.”
The only option left for Nigeria to be in a position to qualify for the World Cup is if FIFA eventually sanctions Bafana Bafana for fielding an ineligible player in the first leg against Lesotho.
FIFA has yet to address the issue, and the qualification ticket is swinging towards Bafana Bafana as the Super Eagles are six points behind on the log.
Broos hails Mamelodi Sundowns star ahead of Nigeria tie
Briefly News earlier reported that Hugo Broos was impressed with a Mamelodi Sundowns star's performance against Lesotho and also in training ahead of the Super Eagles tie.
The former Cameroon national team coach also highlights some of the qualities of the Premier Soccer League star.
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Source: Briefly News
