Latest News
2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: South Africa, Nigeria share spoils in Bloemfontein
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
The highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers clash between South Africa’s senior men’s national team and Nigeria ended in a tense 1-1 draw at the Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein.
The game opened with high intensity, but it was the hosts who struck first. In the 25th minute, Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a dangerous cross, handing Bafana Bafana the lead and sending the home crowd into raptures.
Nigeria regrouped and pressed for a response. Their persistence paid off just before halftime when Calvin Bassey powered home a header in the 45th minute, restoring parity and lifting Super Eagles spirits going into the break.
The second half saw both teams battle for control in a cagey affair. South Africa held their defensive line resolutely, while Nigeria applied late pressure but struggled to carve out a decisive chance.
The result keeps South Africa at the top of Group C with 17 points, now six clear of Nigeria in second place on 11 points.
A win or draw for Benin Republic against Lesotho later on Tuesday will lift the West Africa side to second place above Nigeria.
With only a few qualifying rounds remaining, both sides know the stakes will be even higher in the next fixtures as the race to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup intensifies.
