Nigeria’s World Cup Hopes Fade After 1-1 Draw With South Africa

Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for a seventh FIFA World Cup are hanging by a thread after the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by Group C leaders South Africa at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, newsmen report.

The Eagles needed a win to revive their fading qualification chances, while the Bafana Bafana were determined to maintain their advantage at the top of the table. Head coach Eric Chelle restored captain Williams Troost-Ekong to the starting lineup after he missed the slim 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo last weekend.

Nigeria suffered an early blow when full-back Ola Aina limped off injured inside eight minutes and was replaced by Bright Osayi-Samuel. Matters got worse in the 25th minute as Troost-Ekong unfortunately turned the ball into his own net to hand South Africa the lead.

The Eagles responded just before half-time. A cross from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was bundled into the net by Fulham defender Calvin Bassey in the 44th minute, though the ball deflected off his arm before crossing the line.

Chelle made attacking changes after the break, bringing on Tolu Arokodare and Bruno Onyemaechi for Troost-Ekong and Cyriel Dessers. Despite improved possession, the Nigerians failed to create clear chances. Further introductions of Chrisantus Uche and Samuel Chukwueze added little spark, while Wilfred Ndidi was forced off with a knock.

The game ended 1-1, repeating the scoreline from the reverse fixture in Uyo. South Africa now top the group with 17 points from eight matches, six ahead of Nigeria who remain on 11 points.

For the Super Eagles to stand any chance of qualification, they must win their remaining fixtures against Lesotho and Benin Republic and hope other Group C contenders drop points.