South Africa and Nigeria played out a tense 1–1 draw in their CAF World Cup qualifying clash at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on Monday evening.

The match began with intensity as the hosts took the lead through an own goal from William Troost-Ekong, handing Bafana Bafana an early advantage. However, Nigeria responded before halftime when Calvin Bassey struck to level the score and restore hope for the Super Eagles.

Both sides created chances in the second half, but neither could find the decisive breakthrough. Nigeria’s attack missed the presence of Victor Osimhen, who was sidelined due to injury, while South Africa remained solid despite the pressure.

The result keeps South Africa top of Group C with 16 points, while Nigeria remain third with 10 points, leaving their qualification hopes hanging in the balance. With only the group winners guaranteed a ticket to the 2026 World Cup in Canada, USA, and Mexico, Nigeria will need maximum points from their remaining fixtures and hope for slip-ups from their rivals.

This draw leaves the qualification race finely poised, with South Africa maintaining control but still facing uncertainty due to potential disciplinary issues from earlier in the campaign.