Despite playing to a 1-1 draw against Nigeria in their 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday night, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has praised the team’s performance and attitude.
This followed the team’s chaotic 30 hours trip to the west African country, which saw them almost having to spend a night at an airport in Nigeria, after their chartered flight was delayed by several hours.
Bafana Bafana were the first to get their name on the stadium scoreboard, after midfielder Themba Zwane opened the scoring in the 29th minute, following a defence-splitting pass by Sphephelo Sithole.
But the Super Eagles equalised soon after the restart in the second half by Faruq Dele-Bashiru.
Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was at his best again for the team, pulling off stunning saves to ensure that the team shared the spoils.
“The result is correct, a draw, we had our chances, Nigeria had their chances. But I have to congratulate my players as you know we had a terrible trip to Nigeria on Wednesday, we were only in bed at 2 o’clock in the morning, Thursday morning. So, we were 20 hours on the way and when you see the mentality in the team today then I can only be proud of my players,” Broos said.
“It was a tough game against a good team but in the first half I think we played fantastic football,” said Broos.
The coach lamented some of the missed opportunities, which could have ensured that the team wins the match, to ensure that they top Group C.
“We had some chances. We could have scored a 2-0 maybe then the game was played, and it was a little bit unlucky from our side that after two minutes in the second half we received a goal, and you know that it will be difficult. But again, we fought for it from the 46th till the 95th minute and again I think the result is correct,” added Broos.
The draw leaves Bafana Bafana in fourth place, with four points from three matches below leaders Lesotho, Rwanda and Benin with Nigeria and Zimbabwe in the bottom half.
Bafana Bafana will face Zimbabwe in their next World Cup qualifier in a match that is to be played at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on 11 June. The kick-off is at 18h00.
