MSHISHI MAGIC: Impressive Bafana Bafana fall just short of historic away win over Nigeria after Themba Zwane dazzles Super Eagles

In a game of two halves Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana were unfortunate to be only a goal ahead at halftime, and Nigeria could say the same after dominating much of the second half.

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The game began at a frenetic pace as both sides sought to create goal-scoring opportunities. Stellenbosch FC’s Iqraam Reyners, preferred over Burnley’s Lyle Foster, made several dangerous runs into the Nigerian box, as did the wide players Elias Mokwana and Percy Tau as Bafana gained confidence.

Bafana eventually reaped the rewards when Themba Zwane executed a brilliant one-two pass with Sphephelo Sithole, found himself with space in the Nigerian box, and slotted the ball into Stanley Nwabali’s net to make it 1-0.

After taking the lead, a solid South African defence managed to keep the home side at bay, forcing Nigeria to resort to long-distance shots.

When Nigeria did manage to breach the defence, the reliable Ronwen Williams kept the score unchanged, and that’s how it remained going into halftime.

In the second half, the hosts came out more focused, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru equalised immediately by holding up the ball and firing past Williams from the edge of the area.

The goal shifted the momentum, putting Bafana under pressure and requiring them to tighten their defence.

Clearly in control, and with South Africa scrambling, Nigeria was unlucky not to take the lead when Samuel Chukwueze’s close-range effort struck the crossbar.

In stoppage time, Lookman had a chance to score but couldn’t beat Williams, who made a brilliant reflex save to keep the score level.

The match ended 1-1, bringing Bafana Bafana to four points after three qualifier games. Next week, they have the opportunity to return to winning ways when they host Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein.