The Super Eagles World Cup Qualifications hopes hang as South Africa holds Nigeria to a 1–1 draw

The Super Eagles World Cup Qualifications hopes hang as South Africa holds Nigeria to a 1–1 draw

Nigeria’s Super Eagles picked up an important point on the road after holding South Africa to a 1–1 draw in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier played on Tuesday night at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.

The game started with high energy as both sides looked to take control early. South Africa settled faster and were rewarded in the 25th minute when Nigeria’s captain William Troost-Ekong turned a cross into his own net. The own goal gave Bafana Bafana the lead and the home fans a reason to cheer.

The Super Eagles, however, refused to be discouraged. They pushed forward in search of a response and were rewarded just before halftime. In the 44th minute, defender Calvin Bassey reacted quickly to Ademola Lookman’s delivery and bundled the ball past the South African keeper to bring Nigeria level. The goal lifted the team and changed the momentum of the match going into the break.

The second half was intense, with both teams creating chances. Nigeria’s coach Finidi George made tactical changes, introducing Tolu Arokodare for Cyriel Dessers to strengthen the attack, while Bruno Onyemaechi came in for the injured Troost-Ekong. South Africa also pressed hard, but Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali stood tall with important saves to deny the hosts.

As the game wore on, both sides searched for a winning goal, but the finishing touch was missing. South Africa kept piling pressure, while Nigeria tried to hit on the counter, yet the scoreline remained the same until the final whistle.

At the end, South Africa 1–1 Nigeria, with Troost-Ekong’s own goal in the 25th minute and Calvin Bassey’s equaliser in the 44th keeping both sides level at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.

With the draw, South Africa remain top of Group C, now six points ahead of Nigeria. For the Super Eagles, the result means they still have work to do in their remaining fixtures if they want to secure a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.