'Difficult situation' – Dele-Bashiru admits but backs Super Eagles to deliver v Wasps and Bafana Bafana

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has admitted that Nigeria's quest to secure a place at the 2026 Fifa World Cup is hanging in the balance.

With four rounds of qualifiers remaining, the Super Eagles sit fourth in Group C on seven points, trailing leaders South Africa by six.

The two sides are set for a potentially decisive showdown at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on September 9, a match that could prove pivotal in determining qualification.

Manchester City academy graduate Dele-Bashiru is back in the Super Eagles squad after missing the World Cup qualifying fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March 2025 due to an ankle issue.

The Lazio midfielder has expressed confidence that Nigeria can rise to the challenge as they prepare for back-to-back World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa. 

"All the players, coaching staff and fans have the same expectations for these upcoming games of the World Cup qualifiers, and that’s to win the games,” Dele-Bashiru told Ademola Victor TV. 

"We are in a difficult situation now, six points off the top but everyone knows what we need to do, and that’s what we are going to work towards. 

"We’ve got a few more players coming in today, so once the squad is complete, the work really starts, and I’m confident we will get the job done."

Dele-Bashiru had a clear message for the home fans ahead of Saturday's showdown against Rwanda's Wasps.  

"Just show a lot of belief in us. The game is not over until the final whistle is blown, and the team is going to make everyone proud.”

Reflecting on the atmosphere in camp, he painted a picture of optimism and togetherness. 

"There’s a good mood in the camp right now. Everyone is lively, energetic. I am confident, the team is feeling confident also. 

"Nothing really has changed, we still have the same team. There’s this confident energy going through the camp right now and we are going to show that in the games."

Looking ahead, he underlined the importance of the World Cup to the players and the nation. 

"The World Cup is the biggest stage for a footballer in your career, especially playing for your country, it will be a very massive moment for not just me but all the players here. 

"It will be a massive moment for all the staff and fans, so that’s what we are working towards.

"God willing, we will win the next two World Cup qualifying games and take it from there after that."

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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