Nigeria’s chances of qualifying directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a major setback on Tuesday after the Super Eagles were held to a 1–1 draw by South Africa in a tense Group C clash at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.
The result keeps Bafana Bafana six points clear at the top of the table, leaving them firmly in control of their qualification destiny with two matches to play.
How It Unfolded
The Super Eagles were dealt an early blow when defender Ola Aina limped off in the 10th minute, forcing coach Finidi George to introduce Bright Osayi-Samuel. The hosts quickly seized the initiative, with Mohau Nkota and Oswin Appollis stretching the Nigerian backline.
South Africa’s pressure paid off in the 25th minute. Nkota latched onto a Bathusi Aubass through ball and drilled in a low cross that Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong inadvertently turned into his own net.
Nigeria clawed their way back just before the int.