Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup took a significant hit after they were unable to secure a victory against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
Entering the match, the Super Eagles were six points behind their opponents, a gap they could have narrowed with a win.
However, an own goal by William Troost-Ekong and a header from Calvin Bassey resulted in a 1-1 draw.
For Nigeria to qualify for the World Cup, they must win their remaining qualifiers and hope South Africa loses both of theirs.
Additionally, they need to improve their goal difference, which currently lags behind South Africa’s by six goals.
This match was crucial for Nigeria, but their start was frustrating. They lost key striker Victor Osimhen to injury before the game, and just six minutes in, Ola Aina suffered a hamstring injury.
Nigeria’s difficulties continued as Bright Osayi-Samuel, who replaced Aina, was dispossessed in the box, allowing Oswin Appollis to take the first shot of the match, which was saved by Stanley Nwabali.
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Mohau Nkota from Al-Ettifaq was a constant threat on the right side and created the opening goal with a low cross after 25 minutes.
Troost-Ekong, the captain for the night, stumbled and inadvertently knocked the ball into his own net before being substituted at halftime.
Bafana Bafana sought to extend their lead, putting pressure on Nigeria’s defense after the goal, but they couldn’t score as Nigeria gradually found its footing.
Just before halftime, Bassey became an unexpected hero for the Super Eagles, heading in a goal from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cross.
Although his shot seemed to deflect off his arm, the absence of VAR allowed the goal to stand.
The second half ended without any goals, despite both teams having opportunities.
Tolu Arokodare, who came on at halftime, posed a significant threat, but neither team could secure the crucial winning goal.
Late in the match, Christantus Uche was brought on as Nigeria pushed for a win, but he missed the target from the edge of the area in injury time, resulting in a shared point for both teams.
