South Africa got within a touching distance of the 2026 World Cup ticket following a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Nigeria, yesterday on a sordid Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.

Football followers knew that only a win would put the Super Eagles in a good position in Group C going into the last two games, but the best they could get was a 1-1 draw that left South Africa six points ahead of Nigeria with two games left.

Nigeria went into the game buoyed by the massive support of fans drawn from South Africa and the neighbouring countries, but they found a very determined Bafana Bafana side eager to throw their lives on the line to retain their advantage.

South Africa opened the scoring in the 24th minute when a cross from Nkota was deflected into the Nigerian net by captain Troost-Ekong. The hosts had enjoyed the lion’s share of possession and created more chances early on.

Nigeria responded late in the half, with Bassey heading home Bright Osayi Samuel’s cross after a build-up initiated by Lookman.

The half also saw key moments, including Ola Aina limping off injured, yellow cards for Lookman and Ngezana, and some heated exchanges between players.

At halftime, the game remained finely balanced as South Africa looked to stay top of the group and Nigeria sought to climb higher in the standings.

Nigeria made a double change at the start of the second half, throwing on Bruno Onyemaechi and Tolu Arokodare – with the latter quickly making an impact and almost putting the visitors ahead in the 50th minute with an effort that flashed across the face of goal.

South Africa were not far away from reclaiming the lead in spectacular fashion midway through the second half, with defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi driving forward and attempting to catch Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali off his line, but the ball sailed just over the target.

As the clock wound down, the Super Eagles appeared to tire out, while Bafana Bafana had more energy to pin play in the visitor’s half thanks to the fresh legs of Thalente Mbatha and Kamogelo Sebelebele – ultimately the match closed out at 1-1.

The teams will conclude their Group C campaigns in October, with South Africa facing Zimbabwe (away) and Rwanda (home), while Nigeria will tackle Lesotho (away) and Benin (home).