The Super Eagles of Nigeria had to settle for a 1–1 draw against South Africa in their FIFA World Cup qualifying clash at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, Footynaija.com reports.
Eric Chelle’s men went behind early after captain William Troost-Ekong turned the ball into his own net, handing Bafana Bafana the advantage. But Nigeria found their equaliser through Fulham defender Calvin Bassey, who slotted home in the 44th minute to level matters and keep the dream alive.
Here, Footynaija.com takes a closer look at how each Super Eagles star fared in Bloemfontein.
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Stanley Nwabali (GK) – 6.5
The Chippa United goalkeeper produced a steady display between the posts. He made a couple of decent stops in the second half to keep Nigeria in the contest. He had little blame for the own goal but showed good presence under pressure.
Ola Aina (RB) – 6.4
He started the game at right back but lasted just 10 minutes before being forced off injured. He struggled to get into the rhythm before making way for Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Benjamin Fredrick (CB) – 7.1
The 20-year-old centre-back, who plays for Belgian Pro League club Dender EH on loan from Brentford, showed maturity beyond his years. He made several timely interventions and was calm on the ball throughout. One of Nigeria’s most reliable performers on the night.
William Troost-Ekong (CB) – 6.3
The skipper endured a tough outing after scoring an unfortunate own goal in the first half. He tried to recover with his leadership at the back but was substituted at half time for Bruno Onyemaechi.
Calvin Bassey (LB) – 7.0
Nigeria’s standout player. The Fulham defender not only scored the equaliser but also provided solidity on the left. He pushed forward with intent and delivered one of his best international displays.
Wilfred Ndidi (DM) – 6.6
The Beşiktaş midfielder was solid in patches but looked slightly off the pace at times. He shielded the defence but gave away possession cheaply on a few occasions before being replaced in the 70th minute.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (CM) – 6.8
The Lazio midfielder carried the ball forward well and linked up with Iwobi to create Nigeria’s few attacking openings. He looked energetic and gave the Super Eagles a midfield spark.
Alex Iwobi (AM) – 6.5
The Fulham playmaker tried to dictate the tempo but was well marshalled by South Africa’s midfield. He showed glimpses of quality but could not find that final killer pass.
Moses Simon (LW) – 6.6
The Nantes winger worked hard down the left but did not deliver his usual end product. He was replaced by Samuel Chukwueze in the closing stages.
Ademola Lookman (RW) – 6.2
The Atalanta forward had a quiet evening. He struggled to beat his marker and rarely threatened the South African defence.
Cyriel Dessers (ST) – 6.5
The Panathinaikos striker led the line in Osimhen’s absence but lacked cutting edge. He worked hard off the ball but did not have a real sight at goal before being substituted at half time.
Substitutes
Bright Osayi-Samuel (RB) – 6.6
Came on for Ola Aina in the 10th minute and gave Nigeria some attacking drive from full-back. He tried to push forward but was kept busy defensively.
Bruno Onyemaechi (CB) – 6.7
Replaced Troost-Ekong at the break and steadied the backline. The Olympiacos defender looked composed and helped Nigeria hold firm.
Tolu Arokodare (ST) – 6.7
Came on for Dessers at half time and offered a more physical presence upfront. He held the ball up well but could not find the net.
Christantus Uche (MF) – 6.8
Replaced Ndidi in the second half and injected energy in midfield. He showed confidence on the ball and looked sharp.
Samuel Chukwueze (RW) – 6.6
The Fulham winger was introduced late on for Simon. He made a few driving runs but his final delivery was lacking.
