Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes in danger after draw vs South Africa

Nigeria’s chances of qualifying 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 at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

The Bafana Bafana took the lead in the 28th minute after Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, sending the home supporters into jubilation.

Nigeria, however, found a response just before the break. Defender Calvin Bassey rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, powering his header past the South African goalkeeper to level the scoreline at 1-1.

Despite pushing for a winner in the second half, the Super Eagles were left frustrated as the South Africans held firm defensively, much to the delight of the home crowd.

The result leaves Nigeria in a precarious position. South Africa remain top of the group with 17 points, while the Super Eagles sit in second place with 11 points — six adrift of the leaders with just two matches left to play.

With the gap widening, Nigeria’s path to the World Cup now depends not only on winning their remaining games but also on South Africa dropping valuable points in the run-in.