Calvin Bassey scored his first goal for Nigeria as the Super Eagles drew 1-1 with South Africa in Bloemfontein, leaving their World Cup hopes hanging.
Calvin Bassey scored his first international goal for Nigeria, but the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein.
Nigeria fell behind in the 24th minute when captain William Troost-Ekong turned the ball into his own net. Bassey restored parity five minutes before halftime, rising highest to head home Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cross.
Both sides created chances after the break, with Tolu Arokodare going close for Nigeria and Bafana Bafana threatening on the counter. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made key saves to deny South Africa late on.
The draw leaves Nigeria in fourth place in Group C with 11 points, level with Rwanda but behind on goal difference, while South Africa remain top with 17 points.
With two games left — against Lesotho and Benin — Nigeria’s hopes of automatic qualification are fading, making the playoff route more likely.