Nigeria’s hopes of securing a qualification for the 2026 World Cup suffered another setback as the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in their crucial Group C qualifier at the Free State Stadium.
The result leaves Nigeria top of the group with 11 points from eight matches, but their path to the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico remains far from certain.
South Africa made the brighter start in Bloemfontein, with their attacking play down both flanks causing problems for the Nigerian defence from the outset. The visitors’ task was made harder when full-back Ola Aina was forced off through injury after just eight minutes, replaced by Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Nigeria’s attacking struggles were epitomised by striker Cyriel Dessers, who failed to capitalise on several promising positions and looked short of the pace required at international level.
The hosts took a deserved lead midway through the first half when Nigeria captain William Ekong turned Percy Tau’s cross into his own net under pressure, leaving goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali with no chance.
However, Nigeria showed their fighting qualities just before the interval when Calvin Bassey drove forward from defence to meet Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cross with a firm header past Ronwen Williams.
The second half failed to live up to its early promise, though substitute Tolu Arokodare and Dele-Bashiru both came close to securing all three points for the visitors.
Nigeria’s next fixture takes them to Lesotho on 10 October, where they will be expected to return to winning ways in their quest to reach the World Cup finals.
Match details: South Africa 1-1 Nigeria Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein Attendance: Not disclosed
Goals: South Africa: Ekong (own goal) 25 Nigeria: Bassey 44
