In a match full of mixed emotions and needless blunders, Nigeria’s quest for World Cup qualification was dealt a critical setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday night. The Super Eagles, who went into the match as strong contenders, now find themselves facing an uphill battle to secure a spot at the tournament in the United States.
The evening took a disheartening turn for Nigeria when captain William Troost-Ekong inadvertently opened the scoring for South Africa with a clumsy own goal just 25 minutes into the match. Troost-Ekong’s misfortune set an uneasy tone for the Super Eagles, who struggled to find their rhythm in the early stages.
However, Nigerian relief came just before half-time when defender Calvin Bassey found the net in a rather unconventional manner. His header, which ricocheted off his arm before finding the back of the net, drew Nigeria level and offered a flicker of hope. Indeed, the goal stood despite protests, and the first half concluded with the score locked at 1-1.
Despite a second half that saw chances from both sides, neither team could capitalise, resulting in an unsatisfactory draw for the Nigerians. While South Africa secured the point needed to maintain their position at the top of the group, Nigeria’s draw was a frustrating blow that complicated their path to the World Cup.
The result leaves Nigeria needing multiple favourable outcomes to keep their qualification dreams alive. In essence, the Super Eagles must rely on group leaders South Africa to lose both of their remaining qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda — a scenario that seems increasingly unlikely. Nigeria, meanwhile, must not only win their last two fixtures against Lesotho and Benin but also achieve a goal difference sufficient to surpass Bafana Bafana.
The forthcoming matches in October will be vital, yet they come with the added worry of key player injuries. Nigeria will be eager for the return of star attackers Victor Osimhen, as well as defenders Ola Aina and Wilfred Ndidi, all of whom suffered injuries during this international camp. Their participation could prove crucial as Nigeria seeks to turn their fortunes around in the final push for World Cup qualification.