Nigeria’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup got a little bumpier on Tuesday night, as the Super Eagles were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein.
There was further concern for the Super Eagles when fullback Ola Aina limped off early with a hamstring injury after a heavy challenge. He was replaced by Bright Osayi-Samuel.
The hosts came out flying, determined to make the most of their home advantage. Their breakthrough came in the 24th minute when midfielder Teboho Mokoena slipped a clever pass into the path of Nkota. His cross caused chaos in the box, and unfortunately for Nigeria, captain William Troost-Ekong deflected the ball into his own net to hand South Africa the lead.
Nigeria, however, refused to back down. Just before halftime, Ademola Lookman sparked an attack from midfield, feeding Moses Simon on the right flank. Simon’s precise cross was met by Calvin Bassey, who headed in the equaliser. Controversy briefly lingered as replays showed the ball might have brushed Bassey’s arm, but with no VAR in play, the goal stood.
The result leaves South Africa firmly in control at the top of the group with 17 points, while Nigeria occupies third place with 11 points, three behind second-placed Benin Republic. With just two games left in the qualifiers, every point will count as the Super Eagles prepare for a crucial October double-header against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
With only group winners guaranteed a ticket to the finals, Nigeria’s hopes of playing at the 2026 World Cup are fading. There is a twist, however — Bafana Bafana could still be docked three points for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho in March, pending FIFA’s ruling.
