Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup took a major hit after they were held to a frustrating draw by South Africa in Bloemfontein.
The Super Eagles entered the clash trailing Bafana Bafana by six points in Group C, needing victory to close the gap. Instead, an own goal from William Troost-Ekong and a header from Calvin Bassey left the contest tied, keeping Nigeria’s qualification chances hanging by a thread.
To secure a ticket to the tournament, Eric Chelle’s men must now win their final two fixtures and hope South Africa lose both of theirs, while also overturning a six-goal difference deficit.
The encounter got off to a difficult start for Nigeria, who were already without star striker Victor Osimhen due to injury. Their troubles deepened when Ola Aina limped off with a hamstring problem after just six minutes, forcing an early substitution.
Replacement Bright Osayi-Samuel was quickly tested, losing possession in the box to allow Oswin Appollis a sight of goal, though goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced a fine save to deny him.
South Africa eventually made their pressure count after 25 minutes, when Mohau Nkota whipped in a dangerous low cross. Troost-Ekong, captaining Nigeria on the night, stumbled and inadvertently turned the ball into his own net before being withdrawn at half-time.
Bafana Bafana pushed hard for a second, but Nigeria steadied themselves and found an equaliser on the stroke of half-time. Calvin Bassey rose highest to nod home Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cross, though the ball appeared to deflect off his arm on the way in. With no VAR available, the goal stood.
The second half was evenly contested, with both sides creating openings. Substitute Tolu Arokodare looked lively for Nigeria, while South Africa continued to threaten on the counter. However, neither team could find a breakthrough.
In stoppage time, Christantus Uche had a chance to snatch all three points for the Super Eagles, but his effort from the edge of the box flew wide. The referee’s whistle confirmed a share of the spoils, leaving Nigeria’s World Cup dream in serious jeopardy.
