In a challenging Group C Africa World Cup qualifier, South Africa’s head coach Hugo Broos commended his team’s resilience and performance after securing a 1-1 draw against Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. Despite a grueling journey to Nigeria, the Bafana Bafana held their own against the Super Eagles.
Reflecting on the match, Broos acknowledged the fairness of the result. “I think the draw is the correct outcome. Both teams had their chances,” Broos remarked. He praised his squad’s determination, especially given the difficult circumstances leading up to the game. “We had a terrible trip to Nigeria on Wednesday. We didn’t get to bed until 2:00 AM on Thursday. We were traveling for 20 hours. To see the mentality of the team today makes me very proud.”
South Africa started strong, taking the lead in the first half with fluid play that put Nigeria on the back foot. Broos highlighted his team’s early dominance, saying, “In the first half, we played fantastic football. We created some good chances and could have scored a second goal. Had we done so, the game might have been different.”
However, the momentum shifted quickly after halftime when Nigeria equalized just two minutes into the second half. Despite the setback, Broos lauded his team’s persistence. “It was a little unlucky to concede so early in the second half. After that, we knew it would be tough. But we fought hard from the 46th to the 95th minute. The players gave everything on the field.”
The draw leaves South Africa in a solid position within the group as they continue their quest for World Cup qualification. Broos’s side demonstrated their ability to compete against strong teams under adverse conditions, and he remains optimistic about their prospects moving forward. “It was a tough game against a good team, but our players showed great spirit and determination,” Broos concluded.
Next, South Africa will aim to build on this performance as they prepare for their upcoming qualifier, hoping to continue their journey to the 2026 World Cup.
