The Super Eagles were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by South Africa in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. Nigeria, who came into the tie seeking maximum points to boost their qualification hopes, had to settle for a share of the spoils after a tense and hard-fought battle with the Bafana Bafana.
Completesports.com’s Adeboye Amosu assesses the performances of the Nigerian players in what proved to be another difficult outing for the three-time African champions.
Stanley Nwabali – 7/10
The Chippa United goalkeeper produced a composed display on familiar soil. He made several key saves to keep the Super Eagles in contention and displayed strong command of his area. His anticipation and positioning were largely faultless, underlining his status as Nigeria’s most reliable man between the sticks at present.
Ola Aina – 2/10
The Nottingham Forest full-back’s night was cut short by injury. He was substituted early on and offered little before his withdrawal.
William Troost-Ekong – 4/10
The captain endured a difficult outing, marred by the unfortunate own goal that gave South Africa the lead. Although experienced, he looked off the pace and was replaced at half-time by Bruno Onyemaechi.
Benjamin Fredrick – 8/10
The teenager continues to show why he is highly rated. Calm in possession and aggressive in his defending, the centre-back stood firm against South Africa’s quick attackers. His composure and anticipation belied his age, making him one of Nigeria’s standout performers on the night.
Calvin Bassey – 8/10
The Fulham defender was rock solid at the back and decisive going forward. His equalising goal just before half-time was taken with precision, and he defended resolutely thereafter. A complete performance that will encourage fans hoping for leaders in defence.
Wilfred Ndidi – 6/10
The Besiktas midfielder was industrious, working tirelessly to break up play and protect the backline. However, his influence waned as the game wore on, and he was withdrawn for debutant Christantus Uche late in the second half.
Alex Iwobi – 5/10
Deployed in an advanced role, the Fulham playmaker tried to link midfield with attack but struggled to stamp his authority. Despite his industry, his end product was lacking in a cagey contest.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 7/10
The Lazio midfielder was a bright spark in Nigeria’s midfield. He assisted Bassey’s goal with a well-placed delivery and was full of running throughout the game. At 24, he looks like a long-term option for the Super Eagles.
Moses Simon – 4/10
The Nantes winger had a quiet evening, rarely troubling the South African defence. He lacked his usual directness and was eventually replaced by Samuel Chukwueze.
Ademola Lookman – 4/10
A disappointing showing from the Atalanta star, who squandered a golden chance to seal victory four minutes from time. Despite lasting the full match, he rarely provided the spark Nigeria needed in attack.
Cyriel Dessers – 3/10
The Panathinaikos striker failed to impose himself in the first half, struggling to connect with teammates and offering little threat. He was hooked at the break for Tolu Arokodare.
Substitutes
Bright Osayi-Samuel – 6/10
Thrown into action after Aina’s injury, the Fenerbahçe full-back impressed with his energy and resilience, though he appeared to carry a knock himself later in the game.
Tolu Arokodare – 6/10
The new Wolverhampton Wanderers striker injected urgency after replacing Dessers. He pressed the South African defence and came close to scoring, offering Nigeria an outlet with his physicality.
Bruno Onyemaechi – 5/10
Solid in defence after replacing Troost-Ekong. While he didn’t dominate, he looked more assured than the man he replaced.
Christantus Uche – 3/10
The Crystal Palace midfielder endured a disappointing competitive debut. His decision-making was poor, and he seemed more focused on showboating than providing balance to the team.
Samuel Chukwueze – 3/10
Came on for Simon but failed to lift Nigeria’s attack. He looked short of confidence and rhythm in his cameo.
Conclusion
The result leaves Nigeria with plenty to ponder as qualification hopes hang in the balance. While bright displays from Bassey, Fredrick, and Dele-Bashiru provide positives, the overall lack of cutting edge in attack remains a major concern for Finidi George’s side.
