The Digest:
The Super Eagles of Nigeria saw their 2026 World Cup automatic qualification hopes fade after a tense 1-1 draw with South Africa in Bloemfontein. Calvin Bassey’s maiden international goal canceled out an own goal, but Nigeria’s inability to secure a win leaves them struggling in Group C.
Key Points:
- Nigeria needed a win to keep its automatic qualification hopes alive
- William Troost-Ekong’s own goal gave South Africa a 24th-minute lead
- Calvin Bassey equalized just before halftime with a powerful header
- Key injuries to Ola Aina and Wilfred Ndidi disrupted Nigeria’s rhythm
- Coach Eric Chelle made tactical substitutions but couldn’t find a winner
- Nigeria now sits 4th in Group C, behind South Africa (1st) and Rwanda
- Qualification now depends on other results and potential playoffs
Sources: Supersports, FIFA WC Qualifiers
