Super Eagles Held to 1-1 Draw by South Africa in World Cup Qualifier
By AbdulRahman TiwaTope
The Super Eagles of Nigeria were forced to share the spoils with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana after a tense 1-1 draw in a World Cup qualifier at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, on Tuesday.
The hosts started brightly, pressing hard in the early stages and forcing the Eagles to defend deep. Nigeria’s first real chance came in the 10th minute when Ademola Lookman swung in a dangerous corner, but goalkeeper Foster cleared with a brave header.
South Africa struck first in the 25th minute as Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong turned the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Bafana Bafana the lead.
Nigeria responded before half-time, with Calvin Bassey powering in a header to equalise, though the goal sparked controversy as South African players protested for a foul in the build-up.
The second half saw both sides push for a winner, but wasteful finishing and resolute defending kept the scoreline unchanged.
With the result, News Alert reports that Nigeria now face a tough path in their qualifying campaign, needing to win all remaining fixtures and rely on South Africa dropping points in their final two matches.
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