Match Report: Nigeria 1-1 South Africa - Super Eagles draw in Uyo

Nigeria and South Africa played to a 1-1 draw in their crucial World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday night.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored for Nigeria to equalize after Themba Zwane had put South Africa ahead.

Nigeria started with an attacking 4-3-3 formation. Manchester City academy product Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was in the starting lineup, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made his home debut.

South Africa settled quickly and created the first chance when a Teboho Mokoena free-kick hit the crossbar. Themba Zwane then scored for South Africa just before the half-hour mark, taking advantage of a lapse in Nigeria's defense.

Nigeria had a late chance in the first half, but Paul Onuachu's header from an Ademola Lookman cross was saved by South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. The first half ended with South Africa leading 1-0.

Nigeria came out strong in the second half and were soon rewarded. Onuachu combined with Alex Iwobi, who set up Dele-Bashiru to score the equalizer with a low shot.

Nigeria appealed for a penalty when Dele-Bashiru was fouled in the box, but the referee did not give it. Dele-Bashiru was injured in the incident and was replaced by Alhassan Yusuf.

Nigeria created more chances in the second half. Bright Osayi-Samuel had a shot saved, and Iwobi missed another opportunity. Substitute Samuel Chukwueze hit the crossbar, and Ademola Lookman had two late chances but couldn’t score.
The match ended 1-1, with Nigeria missing the chance to top Group C.

Nigeria will travel to Cote d'Ivoire to face the Benin Republic on Monday. The Super Eagles have drawn their first three qualifiers and are second from bottom in Group C. Lesotho now leads the group after a 2-0 win against Zimbabwe.