South Africa’s Bafana Bafana and Nigeria’s Super Eagles played out a 1-1 draw in their World Cup qualifying clash on Tuesday evening in Johannesburg. Both goals came in a lively first half, with William Troost-Ekong’s unfortunate own goal cancelling out Nigeria’s early breakthrough.
Nigeria opened the scoring in the 18th minute after Ademola Lookman’s incisive play created pressure, before Calvin Bassey converted from a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru assist just before halftime to restore parity following the own goal. South Africa had earlier leveled through the defensive mix-up, keeping the game finely balanced heading into the break.
The second half produced no goals despite several substitutions and heated exchanges, with chances limited on both ends. South Africa’s compact defense held firm, while Nigeria’s late push, including the introduction of Samuel Chukwueze and Uche, failed to produce a winner. The result leaves both sides still in contention but under pressure as the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies.