Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered another setback on Tuesday following a 1-1 draw with South Africa at the Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein.
The Group A encounter, described as crucial for both sides, ended with neither team able to secure maximum points.
South Africa took the lead in the 25th minute when Super Eagles’ captain, William Troost-Ekong, inadvertently diverted a cross into his own net, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.
Nigeria responded just before halftime through defender Calvin Bassey, who powered home a header from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s delivery to bring the score level.
Coach Finidi George introduced Tolu Arokodare and Bruno Onyemaechi at the restart, with Arokodare coming close to giving Nigeria the lead.
South Africa also pressed forward, with Mokoena almost beating goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali from distance.
Both sides pushed late on, but neither could find the decisive goal as the match ended in a stalemate.
The result leaves South Africa at the top of Group A with 17 points and in pole position to qualify for the World Cup, pending the outcome of Benin’s fixture against Lesotho.
Nigeria, on the other hand, remain on 11 points with two matches left to play, leaving the Super Eagles under immense pressure to avoid missing out on a second consecutive World Cup appearance.