Nigeria Held Again as World Cup Hopes Fade

Nigeria’s push for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket suffered another blow after a 1-1 draw against South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.

The Super Eagles, lifted by their weekend win over Rwanda, went into the game knowing only victory would keep their qualification prospects strong.

But after an early own goal from captain William Troost-Ekong and a quick equaliser from Calvin Bassey, neither side could find a breakthrough in the second half.

Coach Eric Chelle’s side showed fight despite the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen and the early loss of Ola Aina to injury.

Substitute Tolu Arokodare nearly turned the game Nigeria’s way after the break, while South Africa threatened through Mohau Nkota and Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

The result leaves Nigeria under pressure with just two matches left in Group C, against Lesotho and Benin Republic in October.

 South Africa, now in control of the group, will complete their campaign against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.