Super Eagles held to 1-1 draw by South Africa in crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s first goal for Nigeria in the 46th minute salvaged a draw after Themba Zwane put Bafana Bafana ahead in the 31st minute. The result leaves the Eagles winless in three games, now fifth in Group C with three points and seven matches remaining.
Nigeria started strong, but Ademola Lookman missed an early chance in the 8th minute. South Africa responded with pressure, nearly scoring multiple times. Themba Zwane broke the deadlock in the 31st minute with a skillful goal, stunning the home crowd. Bafana Bafana almost doubled their lead, but Nigeria’s defense held firm.
After a halftime tribute to late Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi, Nigeria equalized immediately through Dele-Bashiru, assisted by Alex Iwobi. Despite appeals for a penalty and multiple chances to score, both teams settled for a draw.
Alhassan Yusuf, replacing the injured Dele-Bashiru, set up Samuel Chukwueze in the 76th minute, but the effort hit the post. Late substitutions and desperate attempts couldn’t secure a win for Nigeria, as South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made crucial saves, including stopping a Lookman effort in added time.
