World Cup hopes in jeopardy as Nigeria draw 1-1 with South Africa

Nigeria and South Africa shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw at the Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein, on Tuesday night in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.

The hosts went ahead on 25 minutes when William Troost-Ekong, returning as captain, turned a cross into his own net. The error set off wild celebrations among the home fans.

The Super Eagles levelled just before the break. Calvin Bassey bundled home Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cross, though replays suggested the ball may have brushed his hand. The referee allowed the goal to stand.

Coach Eric Chelle started Cyril Dessers in the absence of injured striker Victor Osimhen. But the forward struggled and was withdrawn at halftime alongside Troost-Ekong, with Tolu Arokodare and Bruno Onyemaechi coming on.

Arokodare nearly put Nigeria ahead, flashing wide as the Eagles pressed for a winner. At the other end, Teboho Mokoena forced Stanley Nwabali into a save with a long-range strike.

Chances dried up as the second half wore on. Nigeria pushed late but failed to trouble the Bafana goalkeeper, and the referee’s whistle confirmed a share of the points.

The result keeps South Africa top of Group A on 17 points. Hugo Broos’ men could confirm qualification if Benin fail to beat Lesotho later today.

Nigeria remain on 11 points with two matches left, facing the possibility of missing back-to-back World Cups.