Former Nigerian international Nduka Ugbade believes South Africa are favorites to secure the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket ahead of Nigeria.

The Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana were tipped to battle for the automatic qualification ticket when the World Cup qualifiers draw was conducted last year.

However, after four matches in the qualifying series the three African champions are yet to record a win after managing just 3 points out of a possible 12.

Nigeria are currently languishing in the 5th position in Group C behind South Africa, Benin, Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

The Super Eagles have six matches remaining in the qualifiers to change the to turn their fortunes around.

The three-time African champions will face South Africa (away), Benin (home), Lesotho (away), Zimbabwe (home), and Rwanda (twice, home and away) and will have to be flawless in these matches to boost their chances of qualifying to USA, Canada and Mexico in 2026.

Ugbade, who is a former gaffer for Golden Eaglets believes Hugo Bross' men are favourites to clinch the Mundial tickets.

“The chances for our qualification for the 2026 World Cup are very slim,” Ugbade told Brila. “But in every difficulty, Nigeria always finds a way to do something.

“The only chance we have is to win all our matches, both home and away; against Lesotho, Rwanda, and especially South Africa.

“We have to beat them in South Africa. With a reasonable mind, I know all things are possible, but the truth is, I don’t think South Africa will want to leave their position to Nigeria.

“I’m a Nigerian and I want us to qualify for the World Cup. Everything we can do to qualify I hope we do it to qualify, but, the truth is I don’t think South Africa will lose two or 3 matches.”