Ahead of the World Cup qualification match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on June 7, it was evident that the South African side aimed to either beat or draw with the Super Eagles in Uyo. Unfortunately for Nigeria, the Super Eagles played into South Africa’s hands, failing to stamp their authority in the game during the first half.
The Nigerian team appeared completely uncoordinated in the first 45 minutes, struggling to string passes together, especially in the final third. In contrast, Bafana Bafana stuck to their game plan of waiting and launching counter-attacks. Their tactics paid off in the 29th minute when Themba Zwane opened the scoring for the visitors.
The Bafana Bafana side ended the first half with a slim lead, which didn’t last even a minute into the second half. Turkish-based Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of Hatayspor scored the equalizer for Nigeria in the 46th minute. Despite this, the Super Eagles continued their uncoordinated display, particularly in the opposition’s penalty box, leading to a 1-1 draw.
The draw leaves the Super Eagles in the 5th spot in Group C, one point below 4th-placed South Africa and two points below first-placed Lesotho. As it stands, every game in the qualification series is crucial for the Super Eagles, starting with their next game against third-placed Benin Republic in Abidjan on June 10.