Nigeria wanted victory towards South Africa of their 2026 World Cup qualifier on Tuesday however needed to accept a 1-1 draw.
A William Troost-Ekong personal purpose handed the hosts the lead within the first half.
Earlier than the interval, Calvin Bassey rose to go within the equaliser.
The end result does little to spice up Nigeria’s probabilities of qualifying for subsequent yr’s match.
So, what did we be taught from the match in Bloemfontein?
1. Nigeria are unlikely to succeed in the World Cup
The draw means the Tremendous Eagles now have 11 factors after eight matches. Though they continue to be in second place for now, Benin Republic might overtake them in the event that they safe any end result towards Lesotho, with solely two fixtures left.
2. Solely FIFA can cease South Africa
Barring a three-point and three-goal deduction from FIFA, South Africa are just about assured a World Cup place. Bafana Bafana are awaiting a ruling from the world soccer governing physique after allegedly fielding an ineligible participant towards Lesotho in March.
3. VAR nonetheless an issue
Solely final weekend, Nigeria had been denied what seemed to be a professional purpose towards Rwanda, although they went on to win 1-0. In opposition to South Africa, the ball struck Calvin Bassey’s arm earlier than his equaliser. Had VAR been in use, the purpose would possibly properly have been disallowed, probably altering the course of the match.
4. Arokodare is Osimhen’s deputy
With Victor Osimhen unavailable, Eric Chelle opted to begin Cyriel Dessers. Nonetheless, the Tremendous Eagles solely started to look harmful after Tolu Arokodare was launched at first of the second half. Whereas the Wolves striker didn’t rating, he troubled the South African defence all through, maintaining them below fixed stress.
