Calvin Bassey scored his first international goal for Nigeria but the Super Eagles could only manage a damaging 1-1 draw against South Africa in their matchday eight clash of the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in Bloemfontein on Tuesday evening, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria knew only a win over the Bafana Bafana would do in the race to qualify for the Mundial to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
However, the Super Eagles fell behind midway through the first half courtesy of a William Troost-Ekong own goal.
Fulham defender Bassey headed home the equaliser just before the halftime break but the Super Eagles could not find the much-needed winner after the interval.
South Africa vs Nigeria: How it happened
Nigeria went into the clash knowing only a win would keep them firmly in contention for automatic qualification to the 2026 finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
But Eric Chelle’s men made life difficult for themselves after a calamitous own goal from William Troost-Ekong gifted the Bafana Bafana a 24th-minute lead.
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The early setback seemed to jolt Nigeria into life.
They responded with sustained pressure, forcing a series of corners before Bassey finally levelled five minutes before the interval.
The Fulham defender rose highest to meet Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s delivery, powering in a header for his first goal in national colours since making his debut three years ago.
Chelle, who had already been forced to replace the injured Ola Aina with Bright Osayi-Samuel, rang the changes again at half-time, withdrawing captain Troost-Ekong and striker Cyriel Dessers.
The introduction of Tolu Arokodare injected urgency into the attack, with the new Wolves forward narrowly missing the chance to put Nigeria ahead after breaking clear early in the second half.
South Africa, roared on by their home support, remained dangerous on the counter. Nwabali was twice called into action late on, while teenager Benjamin Fredrick impressed again at the back with a commanding performance.
Tempers flared midway through the second half when opposing coaches Chelle and Hugo Broos squared up on the touchline, adding extra bite to an already fierce contest.
Wilfred Ndidi hobbled off with an injury in the 68th minute, replaced by Crystal Palace’s Christantus Uche, while Ademola Lookman saw his best opening snuffed out when the ball stuck under his feet in the box.
Both sides pushed in seven minutes of added time, but neither could find a decisive goal.
The draw momentarily sees Nigeria climb to second place in Group C on 11 points, level with Benin and Rwanda, who defeated Zimbabwe earlier in the day, but ahead on goal difference. South Africa stay top with 17 points and now look firm favourites to qualify.
Nigeria’s hopes are not over, but with just two matches left — away to Lesotho and at home to Benin in November — Chelle’s side will now look to target a spot in the playoffs.
