Nigeria’s Super Eagles battled to a 1-1 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in a 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, on Tuesday.
The hosts struck first in the 25th minute after captain William Troost-Ekong turned the ball into his own net. Nigeria responded just before half-time when Calvin Bassey headed home an equaliser amid protests from the South African defence.
Éric Chelle’s men improved after the break with Arokodare and Chukwueze adding spark in attack, but missed chances and a resilient South African defence ensured both sides settled for a point.
The result leaves Nigeria provisionally second in the group, though their defensive lapses remain a concern as the Super Eagles push to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
