Super Eagles chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals in Mexico/USA/Canada will face its toughest test Tuesday in Bloefontein, South Africa, when the Super Eagles take on Bafana Bafana in a matchday 8 fixture of the group C qualifiers, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Aware of the importance and crucial nature of the clash, Chikelue Iloenyosi, a former Nigeria international defender and Chairman of Anambra State Football Association, has embarked on a massive rally for Super Eagles going into the 'Battle of Bloefontein'.

Iloenyosi, who is fondly called 'Capacity Chairman', was part of the roaring crowd at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, on Saturday, when the three time AFCON Champions edged Rwanda 1-0 courtesy of Arokodare's second half finish in one of the matchday 7 qualifiers.

'General' Iloenyosi believes that the power of the '12th player' can push the Eagles past their Bafana Bafana foes on Tuesday even in front of their kinsmen.

"The current crop of players under the watchful eyes of Coach Eric Chelle have what it takes to beat South Africa at their backyard in Bloefontein despite the fact that the hosts are top on the Group C table with 16 points with just three games left on the qualification fixtures".

"The victory over Rwanda is a big morale booster for the lads going into Tuesday's crucial contest", he said.

Iloenyosi, a top football administrator expressed hope that the Super Eagles can still top the group with a win against South Africa and in the remaining matches, saying that Nigeria cannot afford to miss the World Cup twice in a row.

Nigeria missed the 2022 World Cup finals staged in Qatar.

"Let me first commend the players for their performance and victory win over Rwanda on Saturday despite the dicey nature of the match. This clearly reflects the quality and commitment of the players towards the 2026 World Cup project.

"This will also serve as the needed boost for the team going into the 'make or mar' game against South Africa on Tuesday in Bloefontein. I believe we have a strong team and what it takes to beat them on their home ground, having denied us two points here in Nigeria in the first leg with a draw.

"I therefore call on the players to remain focused, dedicated and give a good account of themselves on the pitch come Tuesday by taking their pound of flesh just like the South African did in June when they came here. 

"Soccer loving Nigerians should also put the Eagles in their prayers as we seek to go though to the next stage", Iloenyosi concluded.