South Africa 1–1 Nigeria: World Cup Qualifier — As It Happened.
Pre‑Match Build-Up
The stage was set at Bloemfontein’s Free State Stadium on 9 September 2025, with South Africa hosting Nigeria in a crucial Group C clash of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers (Al Jazeera).
Nigeria faced a significant setback as their star striker Victor Osimhen was ruled out due to a foot injury sustained in the recent win over Rwanda (Reuters).
The stakes were high: South Africa aimed to move closer to qualification, while Nigeria needed nothing less than a win to keep their hopes alive (Premium Times Nigeria, Al Jazeera).
First Half
In the 25th minute, disaster struck Nigeria as captain William Troost‑Ekong inadvertently volleyed the ball into his own net, gifting South Africa a shocking early lead (The Standard, Al Jazeera).
As the clock ticked toward halftime, Nigeria rallied. In the 45th minute, Calvin Bassey delivered an equalizing header—though contentious, as it appeared to make contact with his arm, the goal stood (The Standard).
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The scoreboard read 1–1 at the break, setting the stage for an electrifying second half.
Second Half
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The remainder of the match turned into a tactical chess match. Despite intensified efforts, both defenses held firm, and chances were rare (VAVEL.com – Live Sports, The Standard).
Nigeria introduced substitutions in the 80th minute, signaling their intent to press for a winner (VAVEL.com – Live Sports).
Seven minutes of added time were tacked on, but neither side could break the deadlock.
The game ended 1–1, and both teams had to settle for a point (VAVEL.com – Live Sports, The Standard).
After the Final Whistle
The draw had profound implications: South Africa extended their lead at the top of Group C, now six points clear with two games remaining—putting them within touching distance of World Cup qualification (Al Jazeera).
Nigeria, meanwhile, faced mounting pressure.
They slipped to second, remaining alive but now in a delicate spot—needing results in their final qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin to stay in contention (Al Jazeera, Premium Times Nigeria).
Match Timeline (Key Moments)
Time |
Event |
|---|---|
25′ |
Own goal by William Troost‑Ekong — South Africa takes the lead. |
45′ |
Calvin Bassey equalizes — controversial header likely off his arm. |
46–90+’ |
Second half sees few clear chances; Nigeria pushes but cannot score. |
90+7′ |
Final whistle blows — match ends in 1–1 draw. |
Why This Match Mattered
A draw under such circumstances was a bittersweet outcome for Nigeria. Without Osimhen, their offensive firepower was significantly reduced, and despite the equalizer, they couldn’t summon the winner (Reuters).
South Africa, conversely, will view the result as a step closer to ending their absence from World Cup finals—they look increasingly poised to qualify (Al Jazeera).
As things stand, Nigeria’s qualification fate is far from secure—they must now navigate two must-win fixtures in the October international break (Premium Times Nigeria, Al Jazeera).
