The logistical challenges of Friday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria and South Africa would be overcome by Wednesday evening, with the expected arrival of Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, the South African delegation, and match officials in the Akwa Ibom State capital.

Okoye, who lives in Italy, was the only invited player who was not at camp for lunch on Wednesday, although he was already in Nigeria and had a flight booked out of the Federal Capital.

The majority of the match officials have also booked flights out of the Federal Capital, with just referee assessor Ahmed Sayed Abou Elela from Egypt scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Thursday.