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 started with South Africa pressing early, looking to capitalise on home advantage. Nigeria had the first corner in the 10th minute after Ademola Lookman delivered a cross from the right, but South Africa’s goalkeeper Foster cleared the ball with a header.
South Africa threatened on the counter following the corner, with Nkota sprinting forward after a long ball from midfield, only to be denied by a swift save from Nigeria keeper NWABALI.
The game’s first booking came in the 18th minute, with South Africa’s Ngezana and Nigeria’s Lookman receiving yellow cards. Shortly after, Ola Aina was forced off due to a hamstring injury following a challenge from Kabini. Bright Osayi-Samuel came on as his replacement.
South Africa broke the deadlock in the 24th minute. A superb through ball from midfielder Mokoena found Nkota on the flank. Nigeria captain Troost-Ekong inadvertently deflected Nkota’s cross into his own net, giving the hosts the lead. By this point, South Africa had dominated possession (58 percent) and created more attempts (two) compared to Nigeria’s zero.
Despite trailing, Nigeria pushed forward. Osayi-Samuel showed early promise down the right wing but was met by three defenders who regained possession for the hosts. The first half saw intense moments, including a minor tussle between players that required the referee’s intervention.
Nigeria found a dramatic equaliser just before the break. Lookman initiated the move from central midfield, finding Simon on the right, whose cross was headed home by Bassey. Replays suggested the ball may have struck Bassey’s arm, but with no VAR in the match, the goal stood.
The referee signalled three minutes of added time, and the first half ended with both teams locked at 1-1. South Africa aim to extend their lead at the top of the group, while Nigeria hope the result boosts their bid to move into second place.
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