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World Cup Qualification Race Tightens for Nigeria After South Africa Draw

Nigeria Held to 1-1 Draw by South Africa in World Cup Qualifier

Nigeria’s qualification path for the 2026 World Cup became slightly trickier after a 1-1 draw against South Africa on Friday. This result marks their third consecutive draw in the group stage.

Aiming for the top spot in Group C, the Super Eagles fell behind early in the game. South Africa’s Themba Zwane capitalized on a defensive lapse to score past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. 

However, Nigeria didn’t give up and found the equalizer early in the second half. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru notched his first international goal for the team, pulling them level.

The draw leaves Nigeria in fifth place with three points, while South Africa sits in fourth with four points. They will look to improve their position when they face Benin Republic next Monday.