![A South African player dribbles past a Super Eagles defender during their 2026 World Cup qualifier.](https://b.blackcampus.online/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG-20240608-WA0007.jpg)
A South African player dribbles past a Super Eagles defender during their 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in Uyo, Akwa Ibom yesterday | Credit: African Football
Nigeria and South Africa shared the spoils in their highly anticipated match in Uyo on Friday, each securing a point. This result left the less-favored Lesotho atop Group C in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualification series.
South Africa, the 2019 AFCON bronze medalists, struck first at the 29-minute mark when Themba Zwane skillfully maneuvered through the Nigerian defense, sending a close-range shot past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Earlier in the game, Paul Onuachu missed an early chance by heading over a cross from Ademola Lookman in the third minute, followed by Alex Iwobi’s high shot five minutes later. Nwabali kept the home crowd thrilled with a double save against Zwane and Iqraam Rayners in the 10th minute. South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena then hit the crossbar with a 20-yard free-kick in the 17th minute.
After Zwane’s goal, South Africa maintained pressure, with Benjamin Tanimu narrowly avoiding an own goal as Percy Tau and Zwane exploited the Nigerian defense again.
Nigeria equalized one minute into the second half when Alex Iwobi set up Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who expertly turned and scored past Ronwen Williams.
Following the equalizer, Nigeria dominated the game. Substitute Samuel Chukwueze hit the underside of the bar during a dynamic play, and Lookman missed another chance with three minutes remaining. Chukwueze forced a full-length save from Williams in added time.
The draw means Lesotho, who earlier defeated Zimbabwe 2-0, stays on top of the group with five points. South Africa, Benin Republic, and Rwanda each have four points, while Nigeria has three.
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