Nigeria’s Super Eagles were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, on Tuesday evening, in a tense World Cup qualifying clash.
First Half: Own Goal and Response
South Africa started strongly, pressing high and looking to dominate in front of their home fans. Nigeria earned their first corner in the 10th minute through Ademola Lookman’s cross, but goalkeeper Foster rose to clear the danger.
The hosts took the lead in the 25th minute after relentless pressure forced Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong to turn the ball into his own net.
Nigeria, however, responded just before the break. Calvin Bassey met Moses Simon’s cross with a powerful header to make it 1-1. Though replays suggested the ball might have brushed his arm, with no VAR available, the equaliser stood.
Second Half: Missed Chances and Tactical Shifts
Coach Finidi George introduced fresh legs at halftime, with Arokodare replacing Dessers and Onyemaechi coming on for Troost-Ekong. Arokodare immediately showed intent, making a surging run down the left before curling an effort just wide.
Nigeria continued to probe, with Dele-Bashiru firing from the edge of the box only to see his shot blocked by South Africa’s defence.
Injury forced Wilfred Ndidi off, replaced by Uche, while Samuel Chukwueze came on for Simon as Nigeria pushed for a winner.
South Africa also rang changes, introducing Monyane, Mbatha, and Sebelebele to shore up their side.
The Super Eagles had a golden chance late on when Uche drove a low shot towards goal, but it rolled agonisingly wide.
Final Whistle: A Point Apiece
Both teams pressed until the end, but neither could find the decisive strike. The 1-1 draw sees Nigeria provisionally move into second place in their qualifying group, though they will need victories in upcoming fixtures to solidify their World Cup hopes.
The performance showed Nigeria’s resilience in recovering from an early setback but also exposed defensive lapses that must be addressed if they are to make Qatar 2026.
