Nigeria’s World Cup hopes end with 1-1 draw in South Africa
Nigeria’s Super Eagles crashed out of the race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1-1 draw with South Africa on Tuesday.
The Group C Matchday 8 fixture was played at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Nigeria needed an outright win to stay in contention for a World Cup spot.
They had earlier defeated Rwanda 1-0 on Matchday 7 in Uyo, but still sat fourth on the six-team table with 11 points.
South Africa led the group with 16 points and was looking to widen the gap.
The hosts opened the scoring in the 25th minute through an own goal by Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong.
The defender deflected the ball into his own net following a defensive mix-up.
Nigeria equalised in the 44th minute through Calvin Bassey.
The Fulham defender rose highest to head home from a corner kick.
Both teams pushed for a winner in the second half but failed to break the deadlock.
Goalkeepers on both sides made crucial saves to keep the score level.
The result left Nigeria on 11 points with only two matches remaining.
Their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup are now effectively over.
The Super Eagles will play their final group matches against Lesotho and the Benin Republic on October 6 and 13.
Both fixtures are now dead rubbers.
(NAN)
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