Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered another setback on Tuesday as the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in Bloemfontein.
An own goal from captain William Troost-Ekong handed Bafana Bafana the lead in the 25th minute at the Free State Stadium. But Nigeria drew level just before half-time, with defender Calvin Bassey powering home a header to silence the home crowd.
The second half saw Nigeria push harder for a winner, with substitutes Paul Onuachu, Samuel Chukwueze and Tolu Arokodare adding fresh energy in attack. Arokodare went close shortly after coming on, while Uche nearly snatched victory late on with a low drive that rolled agonisingly wide.
South Africa, however, remained resolute and created half-chances of their own, while both sides had to reshuffle due to injuries. Despite Nigeria’s dominance after the break, neither team could find a decisive goal.
The draw leaves South Africa on top of Group C with 17 points, while Nigeria are now six points adrift on 11 points, level with Benin Republic who have a game in hand.
With only two rounds of matches remaining, the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification hopes are hanging by a thread.
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