What are the latest updates on Bafana Bafana and Nigeria!

With the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup qualifier between South Africa and Nigeria coming up today, everyone is wondering what city will host the match between the two teams.

South Africa appear to be the favorites to win the group, finishing top of Group C with 13 points from six matches, five points behind second-placed Rwanda.

On the other hand, Nigeria, who will face South Africa on September 8, is in fourth place and has only seven points from six group stage matches.

Durban is mounting a serious campaign to secure hosting rights for South Africa's highly anticipated AFCON qualifier against Nigeria, with top provincial officials personally appealing to SAFA leadership. SAFA eThekwini president Mazwi Mkhize disclosed that KZN's Sports MEC Mntomuhle Khawula recently cornered SAFA president Danny Jordaan during a public event, forcefully restating the province's desire to stage the match at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The coastal city believes it can recreate the electric atmosphere of Soweto Derby clashes, with Mkhize drawing parallels to the packed houses seen during Kaizer Chiefs-Orlando Pirates Nedbank Cup finals. However, he acknowledged the stiff competition from other provinces, noting that financial muscle rather than sentiment will likely determine the eventual host.

Mkhize revealed KZN's strategic advantage lies in having full provincial government backing, with the Sports MEC personally championing their bid. The province has been preparing for this opportunity since first learning of Nigeria's scheduled visit, envisioning Moses Mabhida's sweeping stands filled to capacity for what promises to be one of Africa's most watched qualifiers. Yet with multiple regions expected to table competing offers, the final decision may hinge on which province presents the most compelling financial package to SAFA's decision-makers.

The bidding war underscores the match's significance, combining sporting prestige with substantial economic benefits for the host city. Durban's proponents argue their world-class stadium and proven track record of hosting major events gives them an edge, but recognize the competition will be decided in boardrooms rather than on footballing merits alone.