The Nigerian Super Eagles have successfully navigated a challenging 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, securing a coveted spot in the continental playoffs. Despite a poor start that saw them in third place behind Benin Republic and South Africa until the final game, Nigeria demonstrated resilience to keep their World Cup aspirations alive. Their decisive moment came with a resounding 4-0 victory over Benin Republic at the Godwin Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. This crucial match featured a remarkable performance from star striker Victor Osimhen, who scored his third career hat-trick for his country, playing a pivotal role in securing their playoff berth.

In the same qualifying context, South Africa also achieved a significant milestone, securing a direct spot in the FIFA World Cup for the first time since they hosted the event in 2010. Bafana Bafana's success meant they edged out Nigeria by a single point in the group standings, though Nigeria's strong finish still earned them a place in the demanding playoff stage.

Rwanda's head coach, Adel Amrouche, lauded both nations for their achievements. Speaking at a post-match press conference, Amrouche congratulated South Africa and Nigeria, emphasizing the significant responsibility they now carry in representing the African continent on the global stage. He stated, "I am happy for the coach of Bafana Bafana and for all the teams because Africa needs people who can represent us, like Nigeria, a strong team that can represent the continent at the World Cup. And now the responsibility is big on them, because when you play for the continent, you must give more than what we saw in these qualifiers. You must always be at the top."

Following their successful qualification for the playoffs, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced the cancellation of two previously planned international friendly matches against Venezuela and Colombia. These friendlies were scheduled to take place in the United States in November. Sources within the NFF confirmed that the decision was a direct consequence of a scheduling conflict, as the friendly dates clashed with the crucial World Cup playoff tournament set to be held in Morocco. The federation prioritizes the team's full focus on the World Cup qualification campaign. An NFF official noted, "The friendlies have been called off because the date clashed with the World Cup playoffs slated for Morocco in November," further adding, "Besides, the clause in the friendlies allows for cancellation should the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 World Cup." The Super Eagles are now set to face Gabon in the semi-final of the continental playoffs on November 13 in Morocco, with the final of the playoff tournament scheduled for November 16. The team's final seeding will be dependent on the upcoming FIFA rankings.