The 40,000-capacity arena had faced scrutiny in recent weeks after complaints emerged about its deteriorating playing surface. Officials feared the poor pitch conditions could force South Africa’s home fixtures to be relocated, raising questions about where the Bafana Bafana would host Nigeria in next week’s high-stakes clash.
However, following a fresh round of inspections, both FIFA and CAF issued a joint statement on Wednesday confirming that the stadium now meets minimum requirements for international competition.
“Considering the encouraging progress observed on the pitch, both organisations have agreed that the matches will proceed as originally scheduled at the Free State Stadium,” the statement read.
The clearance means Bloemfontein will not only host South Africa’s qualifier against Lesotho on September 5 but also the crucial Group C encounter between Bafana Bafana and the Super Eagles on September 9. Lesotho, lacking a FIFA-approved stadium of their own, will play their designated ‘home’ match against South Africa at the venue.
The stakes for both sides could not be higher. South Africa currently sit at the top of the group with 13 points from six matches and are edging closer to a return to the global stage. Nigeria, meanwhile, are struggling to find consistency under coach Eric Chelle. The Eagles occupy fourth place with just seven points, trailing Rwanda and Benin Republic, who are second and third respectively.
With only two matches left to determine Africa’s representatives for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, Nigeria must secure maximum points against both Rwanda and South Africa to keep alive their hopes of reaching a seventh Mundial appearance.