2026 World Cup Qualifier: Chelle Explains South Africa Draw

2026 World Cup Qualifier: Chelle Explains South Africa Draw

Sampson Adedeji

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has outlined the reasons behind his team’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Calvin Bassey’s strike on the stroke of halftime cancelled out William Troost-Ekong’s own goal, ensuring the points were shared in Bloemfontein. 

“It was a great game, full of intensity and aggressiveness,” Chelle said after the match.

“The pitch made things difficult, but both teams tried to play good football. Congratulations to South Africa, they played very well, and my players also gave their best.”

The Nigerian coach admitted his side took risks early on in search of a win.

“We wanted to push in the first half, keeping one-on-one situations at the back because victory was our goal. Unfortunately, after just 22 minutes, we conceded. But I’m proud of the mentality the boys showed to fight back.”

Following the result, Nigeria now sits third in the group standings, behind South Africa and the Benin Republic.