Super Eagles vs Bafana Bafana in Uyo, Nigeria on June 7, 2024. | Getty Image
.Nigeria now 5th in Group C
By Valentine Amanze
The Finidi George tutored male national football team of Nigeria, the Super Eagles, on Friday June 7, 2024, failed to completely fly over their South African counterpart, the Bafana Bafana, at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, as the match ended 1-1.
Bafana Bafana drew the first blood in the 26th minute, when South Africa’s Themba Zwane dribbled pass three Nigerian defenders to unleash a powerful volley, which beat Stanley Nwabali in goal.
Before the goal, the Bafana Bafana, who had played three times in the same stadium without a loss, hit the crossbar in the 23rd minute, while the Paul Onuachu-led Super Eagles’ attack shot blank all through the first half.
Though the Super Eagles did not play badly, most of their efforts in front of their opponent’s goal post were thwarted by Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, until Fisayo Dele-Basiru rattled him with a powerful strike from the heart of midfield.
Also read: Reflections on the Super Eagles’ defeat
Dele-Basiru had, in the early minutes of the second half, intercepted a pass from Alex Iwobi half, who combined very well with Ademola Lookman in the middle of the pack, before unleashing the volley.
The Nigerians were hoping to avoid a third consecutive draw in the Group C World Cup qualifiers, while Hugo Broos’ men seemed more disciplined at the back with last minute stops to deny UEFA European League final hero, Ademola Lookman, as well as Kelechi Iheanacho.
Nigeria ended the first half the better side and resumed the second half with some renewed vigour.
The introduction of Samuel Chukwueze almost put the Super Eagles ahead but the crossbar denied the effort of the AC Milan man.
With the 1-1 draw, Nigeria, which plays Benin Republic on Monday, remains fifth in Group C, with three points on the log table, a point behind South Africa with four points.
South Africa plays Zimbabwe, who occupy the bottom spot next week, while top of the group, Losetho, plays second placed, Rwanda next.
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