Nigeria’s Super Eagles are running out of time in their push for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being forced to a 1-1 draw against South Africa in Bloemfontein — www.isagoal.com reports.
According to reports, South Africa’s William Troost-Ekong scored an own goal in the 25th minute before Calvin Bassey leveled with a header just before halftime.
The result means Hugo Broos’ side stays firmly at the top of Group C with 17 points, needing just one more win to book their World Cup ticket.
Nigeria, meanwhile, remain on 11 points, tied with Rwanda but ahead only by goal difference.
Benin climbed to second place after hammering Lesotho 4-0 in Abidjan with goals from Steve Mounié, Cédric Hountondji, Imourane, and Olaitan.
Rwanda also stunned Zimbabwe with a 1-0 win in Harare thanks to Mugisha’s first-half strike, pulling level with Nigeria and tightening the race for second spot.
“The Super Eagles now have to win their last two matches against Lesotho and Benin,” analysts warn, “or risk missing out on direct qualification.”
The crunch clash against Benin is now set to decide Nigeria’s fate, making it one of the most defining fixtures in recent Super Eagles history.
This article was updated 1 month ago
