Nigeria’s struggles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers continued as they were held to a 1–1 draw by Bafaa Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday night.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s second-half strike salvaged a point for the Super Eagles after Themba Zwane’s superb solo effort had given Bafana Bafana the lead midway through the first half.
Finidi George made a few tactical tweaks, starting Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali in goal for his first home appearance and deploying a 4-3-3 setup that included Dele-Bashiru and Alex Iwobi in midfield. However, despite a bright start, Nigeria struggled to contain South Africa’s sharp movement and passing.
The visitors struck first in the 29th minute when Themba Zwane weaved through the Nigerian defence and fired past Nwabali to put South Africa ahead. Hugo Broos’s side looked composed and disciplined, frustrating the hosts and nearly doubling their lead before halftime through Teboho Mokoena’s free kick, which clipped the crossbar.
Nigeria came out stronger after the break and found their equaliser in the 46th minute. Paul Onuachu linked up neatly with Alex Iwobi, whose through ball released Dele-Bashiru to turn and finish clinically into the bottom corner.
The Super Eagles appealed for a penalty shortly after when Dele-Bashiru was brought down in the area, but the referee waved play on — a decision that sparked protest from the home side. The midfielder was eventually forced off injured, replaced by Alhassan Yusuf.
Despite late pressure from Nigeria, South Africa held firm to claim a valuable away point that leaves the group finely balanced. After three matches, Nigeria remain winless with three draws, while South Africa’s result keeps them within reach of the top spot in Group C.
Final score: Nigeria 1 (Dele-Bashiru 46’)
South Africa 1 (Zwane 29’)