Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying journey grew even more tense on Tuesday evening as the Super Eagles managed only a 1-1 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
The result leaves the three-time African champions with more work to do in Group C as they chase a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The hosts flew out of the blocks with their aggressive start, constantly targeting both wings of Nigeria’s backline. Matters worsened for the visitors early on when Olaoluwa Aina, attempting a bursting run down the right, picked up an injury and was replaced by Bright Osayi-Samuel after just eight minutes. This early disruption unsettled Eric Chelle’s men, who struggled to establish control.
South Africa’s reward came in the 25th minute, though in fortunate circumstances. Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear, leaving goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali wrong-footed and Bafana Bafana celebrating an unexpected lead.
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Bassey’s equaliser restores hope
Despite the setback, the Super Eagles showed resilience before halftime. Just as the interval approached, defender Calvin Bassey charged forward with intent, sparking one of Nigeria’s best attacking moves.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru whipped in a precise cross that Bassey met with a powerful header, beating Ronwen Williams to restore parity in the 44th minute. The equaliser shifted the momentum and made the Nigerian team believe again.
After the restart, the second half promised drama but ultimately delivered little end product. The Eagles created chances, with substitute Tolu Arokodare coming close and Dele-Bashiru again testing the opposition, but composure in front of goal was missing. South Africa, meanwhile, stayed disciplined defensively, ensuring the spoils were shared at full time.
The draw leaves Nigeria on 11 points from eight matches, with qualification hopes still hanging in the balance. Their next assignment will also take place at the Free State Stadium, where they face Lesotho on October 10. With just two fixtures remaining, the Super Eagles must rediscover their cutting edge quickly if they are to secure passage to the finals in North America.
Tags: South Africa, Bafana Bafana, #SoarSuperEagles, #RSANGA, #RSAvsNGA, Ronwen Williams, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Tolu Arokodare, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Bloemfontein, Free State Stadium, Cyriel Dessers, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel.
