South Africa and Nigeria played out a tense 1-1 draw in Bloemfontein, with teenage defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi standing tall for Bafana Bafana while Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong endured a nightmare outing.
South Africa remain in pole position to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after sharing the spoils with Nigeria in a fiercely contested 1-1 draw at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
An early own goal from William Troost-Ekong gifted Bafana Bafana the lead, before Calvin Bassey rose highest to head home an equaliser for the Super Eagles before the interval. Despite late pressure, neither side could find a breakthrough, leaving Hugo Broos’ men top of Group C with 17 points, while Nigeria sit second on 11 points, level with Benin.
Here are the winners and losers from the clash:
Winner: Mbekezeli Mbokazi
The 19-year-old was immense at the back for South Africa. Calm under pressure, aggressive in duels, and fearless when driving forward, Mbokazi showed maturity beyond his years. He even tested the Nigerian goalkeeper with thunderous efforts from range, underlining his growing reputation as one of Africa’s brightest defensive prospects.
Loser: William Troost-Ekong
It was a night to forget for Nigeria’s skipper. His early own goal handed Bafana Bafana momentum, and his struggles led to an early withdrawal at halftime. Expected to inspire, he instead left his team chasing the game.
Winner: Calvin Bassey
If Troost-Ekong struggled, Bassey stood tall. His energy and determination epitomised Nigeria’s fight, and his equaliser kept their hopes alive. Defensively strong and offensively daring, he was Nigeria’s standout performer on the night.
Loser: Hugo Broos
The South Africa coach has worked wonders with this team, but his reluctance to make substitutions when players were visibly fatigued raised questions. With Nigeria flagging late on, fresh legs could have tilted the balance in Bafana’s favour.
Winner: Mohau Nkota
A tireless display saw Nkota embody the grit required on nights like these. His energy and composure ensured South Africa never lost control in midfield. A player made for the big stage.
Loser: Ronwen Williams
The South African captain was excellent in distribution but looked shaky between the posts at times. A lack of urgency and a few uncertain moments nearly cost his team, and that’s something Broos will want cleaned up heading into crucial fixtures.
Final Word
The draw keeps Bafana Bafana firmly on track for a World Cup ticket, while Nigeria’s qualification hopes hang in the balance. For South Africa, young stars like Mbokazi are proof of the project’s success. For Nigeria, questions will only grow around leadership and consistency.
