2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying: Super Eagles Hold Bafana Bafana to 1-1 Draw in Bloemfontein
Nigeria’s push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain after the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, on Tuesday.
Group C leaders South Africa started strongly and put pressure on the Nigerian defence from both flanks. The Eagles suffered an early setback in the eighth minute when right-back Ola Aina picked up an injury and was replaced by Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Cyriel Dessers, given another chance after a poor display in Uyo, again failed to impress. He struggled to connect with passes, lost aerial duels, and could not spark Nigeria’s attack.
The home side took the lead in the 25th minute when captain William Ekong accidentally diverted the ball into his own net, leaving goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali stranded.
Nigeria, however, fought back just before half-time. Defender Calvin Bassey showed determination to drive forward and was rewarded when he met Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cross with a powerful header to level the score in the 44th minute.
The second half lacked quality, though substitute Tolu Arokodare and Dele-Bashiru both had chances to seal victory for the Eagles.
The result leaves Nigeria with 11 points from eight matches. Their next fixture is against Lesotho, also in Bloemfontein, on 10 October.
