Super Eagles’ 1-1 Draw Leaves World Cup 2026 Qualification Hanging by a Thread
Omoyeni Olabode
Nigeria’s aspiration for direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been dealt a significant blow following a keenly contested 1-1 draw against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
The match, played at Free State Stadium, saw an early setback for the Super Eagles when captain William Troost-Ekong inadvertently scored an own goal in the 25th minute. Nevertheless, Nigeria rallied before half-time, with Calvin Bassey heading home in the 44th minute to level matters.
The result leaves South Africa atop Group C, now with 17 points, while Nigeria linger on 11 points, trailing their neighbours by six with only two games remaining. A challenging path to World Cup qualification now lies ahead for the Super Eagles.
With only the group winner securing direct entry to the World Cup and the runner-up potentially facing a gruelling inter-continental play-off, Nigeria’s hopes now rest on not just their own performances, but also favour from other teams dipping in the final round of matches.
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