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Mbekezeli Mbokazi of South AfricaBackpagepix
Celine Abrahams

Winners & losers: Mbekezeli Mbokazi top performs as Bafana Bafana edge closer to FIFA World Cup ticket, while William Troost-Ekong flops and Nigeria lose points

The spoils were shared in the highly-anticipated showdown between South Africa and Nigerian in Bloemfontein.

An own goal from Nigeria’s William Troost-Ekong gave South Africa an early advantage at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 9 September. Bafana Bafana looked to take control, but the Super Eagles responded, with Calvin Bassey powering a header past Ronwen Williams to level the score 1-1 before halftime.

The second half proved tough for both sides, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw. Bafana Bafana remain top of Group C with 17 points, while Nigeria sit second on 11 points, tied with Benin, who battle Lesotho as the next match on Tuesday night.

GOAL breaks down the winners and losers from Toyota Stadium.

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  • Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Bafana Bafana, August 2025Backpage

    WINNER: Mbekezeli Mbokazi

    The 19-year-old deserves huge credit for a mature display against Nigeria. His composure in defence, strength on the ball and fearless willingness to push forward showed a player beyond his years. 

    Not only did he keep Nigeria’s attack at bay at crucial times, but he also wasn’t shy to join the offensive and test the goalkeeper with powerful efforts.

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  • William Troost-Ekong of NigeriaBackpagepix

    LOSER: William Troost-Ekong

    Going into the clash, Super Eagles fans looked to their captain for inspiration, but his own goal left Nigeria on the backfoot before he was taken off at halftime.

  • Calvin Bassey of NigeriaBackpagepix

    WINNER: Calvin Bassey

    Bassey wore his heart on his sleeve, standing out as one of the few willing to put his body on the line for Nigeria. His defining moment came when he surged from the back into attack, capping the move with the crucial equaliser.

  • 2026 FIFA World Cup, Qualifier - South Africa v NigeriaGetty Images Sport

    LOSER: Hugo Broos

    The Belgian mentor has done a fantastic job with the national team, but his reluctance to make changes when players were visibly tiring is a concern. With Nigeria fading late on, earlier substitutions might have tipped the game in Bafana’s favour.

  • Mohau Nkota, Bafana Bafana, August 2025Backpage

    WINNER: Mohau Nkota

    Going the distance against a tough Nigerian side showed just how much grit and quality the former Orlando Pirates star brings. It’s exactly the mentality required for players aiming to shine on the World Cup stage.

  • Ronwen Williams of South AfricaBackpagepix

    LOSER: Ronwen Williams

    While the captain’s distribution was excellent in launching Bafana’s attacks, he didn’t look entirely convincing in goal. At times, his lack of urgency and shaky moments raised concern.