Chijioke Gabriel
Nigeria’s Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana played out an eventful first half at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, with both teams finding the net as the sides went into the break tied 1-1.
The match began with South Africa pressing high, eager to capitalise on home advantage. Nigeria had the first corner in the 10th minute when Ademola Lookman swung in a cross from the right, but goalkeeper Foster cleared the danger. Moments later, South Africa launched a counterattack through Nkota, who was denied by a sharp save from Nigeria’s keeper Stanley Nwabali.
Tensions rose in the 18th minute after a clash between Ngezana and Lookman earned both players yellow cards. Nigeria suffered a setback when Ola Aina limped off with a hamstring injury following a challenge from Kabini, forcing Bright Osayi-Samuel into an early substitution.
South Africa broke the deadlock in the 24th minute. A brilliant pass from Mokoena released Nkota on the flank, and his cross was deflected into the net by Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, for an own goal. By then, South Africa had enjoyed 58 percent possession and created more chances than Nigeria.
Despite falling behind, Nigeria pushed forward. Osayi-Samuel tried to spark attacks from the right wing but was quickly closed down by South Africa’s tight defence. The intensity of the contest grew, with minor tussles requiring the referee’s intervention.
Nigeria finally found an equaliser just before the break. Lookman initiated a swift move through midfield, releasing Moses Simon on the right. Simon’s cross was met by Calvin Bassey, whose header found the net. Though replays suggested the ball may have brushed his arm, with no VAR in use, the goal stood.
The referee added three minutes of stoppage time before blowing the whistle for halftime, with both teams locked at 1-1. South Africa will look to extend their lead at the top of the group in the second half, while Nigeria aim to strengthen their push for qualification with a decisive result.