Nigeria had to come from behind to salvage a 1-1 draw against South Africa in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday night at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The Super Eagles fell behind to Themba Zwane’s 29th minute strike after poor defending before Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s second-half equaliser earned the point.
Finidi George’s side made a sloppy start and were punished when Zwane was allowed to turn in the box and find the bottom corner. Nigeria went close to an equaliser before half-time through Calvin Bassey and Paul Onuachu but trailed at the break.
However, they drew level just a minute into the second period as Dele-Bashiru rolled his marker and fired home after good work by Alex Iwobi. Both sides then created good chances to win it, with Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ademola Lookman going close for the hosts.
For South Africa, Percy Tau inexplicably missed a great late opportunity, while Samuel Chukwueze struck the bar as Nigeria pushed for a winner. In the end, they had to settle for a point at home after Terem Moffi blazed over in stoppage time.
The draw means Nigeria have taken just three points from three games in this World Cup qualifying campaign so far. They will likely need a victory at home to Benin in their next match to keep realistic hopes alive of making it to the 2026 finals.
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