Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup took another hit after being held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in a crucial Group C qualifier played on Tuesday at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
An own goal by Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong and a well-taken equalizer from defender Calvin Bassey ensured both sides shared the spoils, leaving Nigeria’s path to the World Cup increasingly difficult.
TJ News Nigeria reports that with only two group matches left to play, South Africa remain top of Group C with 17 points, six points clear of Nigeria, who are tied on 11 points with Benin Republic. Benin still have a game in hand, further complicating Nigeria’s qualification chances.
How the Match Unfolded
From the opening whistle, South Africa took control of the game, buoyed by a vocal home crowd and the advantage of familiar terrain. The Bafana Bafana side pressed aggressively, forcing Nigeria into an early defensive shape.
Nigeria, however, created the first real chance in the 10th minute. Ademola Lookman’s dangerous cross from the right flank resulted in a corner, but South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams reacted swiftly to nullify the danger.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute, though not in Nigeria’s favor. A defensive mix-up ended with an unfortunate own goal from Troost-Ekong, handing South Africa a deserved lead.
Just before halftime, Nigeria found a response. Bassey rose highest to meet a cross, powering home a controversial yet decisive header to silence the Bloemfontein crowd and bring the scoreline level at 1-1.
Nigeria’s Tactical Adjustments
At halftime, Super Eagles coach Finidi George made two bold changes, introducing striker Tolu Arokodare for Cyriel Dessers and left-back Bruno Onyemaechi for Troost-Ekong.
Arokodare almost made an instant impact, charging down the left wing and cutting inside to fire narrowly wide. The substitution signaled Nigeria’s attacking intent, but South Africa remained compact and difficult to break down.
In the second half, Nigeria began to enjoy more possession and created several half-chances. Despite their growing dominance, the Super Eagles could not find the cutting edge needed to secure all three points.
Missed Opportunity and Qualification Picture
Nigeria’s late surge saw them throw everything forward, but South Africa’s defense held firm. The inability to secure maximum points has left the Super Eagles’ qualification prospects hanging by a thread.
The draw means South Africa maintain their grip on Group C, while Benin Republic could leapfrog Nigeria with their outstanding fixture.
With two matches left, Nigeria will need a perfect run of results — and hope for other outcomes to go their way — if they are to secure a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
Key Match Facts
- Venue: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa
- Scoreline: South Africa 1-1 Nigeria
- Scorers: William Troost-Ekong (own goal, 25’), Calvin Bassey (44’)
- Group C Standings: South Africa – 17 pts, Nigeria – 11 pts (tied with Benin Republic, game in hand)
- Remaining Fixtures: Two matches left in Group C
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Key Takeaway
Nigeria’s World Cup dream is now in jeopardy following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against South Africa. With just two qualifiers left and a six-point gap to the group leaders, the Super Eagles face an uphill battle to book their place at the global tournament.
