Nigeria vs South Africa: Key Lessons From Bafana Clash As Super Eagles Target Victory Against Benin

• The Super Eagles of Nigeria treated fans to a largely underwhelming display in the clash against South Africa
• The result of the 2026 FIFA qualification clash leaves the Nigerian team in fifth place ahead of the next round of matches
• Sports Brief spotlights takeaways from the draw against Bafana, such as Finidi George’s team eying redemption vs Benin

It wasn’t to be for the fans and stakeholders of the Super Eagles, as they witnessed the Nigerian team under the leadership of Finidi George held to a draw by South Africa.

Many anticipated that this crucial fixture would reinvigorate Nigeria's lacklustre start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign. However, the match fell short of expectations, with South Africa dominating the early stages.

3 major concerns as Finidi announces Nigeria’s list for South Africa, Benin clash

Football

While the Super Eagles eventually found their footing, they couldn't secure the much-needed victory.

As a result, Nigeria slipped to fifth place in Group C. Nonetheless, the Super Eagles have an opportunity to salvage their qualification hopes in an upcoming fixture against Benin Republic.

In light of the disappointing draw and with eyes set on victory against the Cheetahs of Benin, Sports Brief highlights the positives and key takeaways from the clash against South Africa.

Key takeaways from Nigeria’s clash vs South Africa

Finidi’s bold character

The Super Eagles coach demonstrated his firm grasp on the team with the decision to start both Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the crucial qualification fixture.

While Onuachu did not justify the manager’s gamble, Dele-Bashiru’s inclusion proved to be a masterstroke as he netted the equaliser for Nigeria.

More courageous decisions like this will be essential for the Nigerian team throughout their qualification campaign.

Nigeria vs South Africa: Finidi George receives major boost ahead of crunch fixtures

Football

Semi Ajayi’s best position

Another notable takeaway from the clash against Bafana Bafana was the evident struggle of Semi Ajayi.

The former Arsenal defender has consistently proven to be a stalwart in a three-man defensive system. However, the 30-year-old has always been suspect when deployed in a four-man defence, and last night was no exception.

According to Fotmob data, Ajayi was dribbled past twice and won just one tackle before being substituted off in the 80th minute.

Coach Finidi might want to consider switching back to a three-man defensive approach to allow the current West Brom star to shine brightly.

Chukwueze’s spark reignited

Samuel Chukwueze’s impressive form, which earned him back his starting spot at AC Milan, might just be the spark the Super Eagles need to clinch victory against Benin Republic.

The fleet-footed forward, who was widely speculated to be an injury doubt for the fixture, surprised many when he came on as a second-half substitute and lit up the field with his runs and incredible dribbles.

Ahmed Musa shares his expectations for Nigeria’s clash against South Africa and Benin Republic

Football

Going forward, Coach Finidi might need to reconsider his decision to start the underwhelming Kelechi Iheanacho over Chukwueze, who was a definite threat to the South African defenders when introduced.

While it is true that the Nigerian team lost two valuable points against Bafana, it is also important to note that the performance had its positives.

Mistakes Finidi made on his Super Eagles debut

Sports Brief in another report compiled a list of notable mistakes Finidi made on his debut as Super Eagles coach.

The 53-year-old made some questionable calls that sparked backlash from fans of the Nigerian team.