In the World Cup qualifying match held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, the Super Eagles of Nigeria faced off against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Surprisingly, Coach Finidi George opted to start Paul Onuachu from Southampton upfront instead of Victor Boniface from Bayern Leverkusen, while also including Fisayo Dele-Basiru in midfield.
South Africa took the lead early on with Themba Zwane’s 28th-minute strike, catching goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali off guard. Despite Nigeria’s efforts to equalize before halftime, they were unsuccessful until Dele-Basiru’s brilliant strike leveled the score in the second half, beating South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Although Nigeria pressed for a winning goal, with Samuel Chukwueze coming close to scoring, they were denied by the crossbar. Despite their efforts, Bafana Bafana held firm, securing a draw.
This result leaves Nigeria in fifth place in Group C with three points, just one point behind South Africa, who sit in fourth place with four points.
