The Super Eagles of Nigeria played to a 1-1 draw against South Africa in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday night at Goodswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Nigeria’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru netted an early second-half goal to equalize after South Africa’s Themba Zwane put Bafana Bafana ahead in the first half
The Super Eagles struggled in the opening period, trailing due to a well-executed team effort from the visitors.
Dele-Bashiru, who later left the field with an apparent injury, managed to secure a draw for Nigeria, ensuring they didn’t suffer a home defeat.
This result means Nigeria remains winless in their first two qualification matches, following their disappointing defeat to Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations final in February.
The Super Eagles, who have previously qualified for the FIFA World Cup in 1994, 1998, 2002, 2010, 2014, and 2018, are set to face the Republic of Benin away on Monday, June 10, 2024.
The team had hoped a change in head coach would spark a revival after their AFCON final loss, but new head coach Finidi George, a former Premier League winger, is still finding his footing.
Having taken on the role permanently after two lackluster friendly matches as interim coach, George is keen to establish his mark on the team.
