Super Eagles Rating Dele Bashiru Shines,Chukwueze Sparks Iwobi Creative

In a 1-1 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on matchday three of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the Super Eagles put up a mixed performance at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Here are the player ratings:

The Starters:

Stanley Nwabali Goalkeeper: Maintained composure, quick off his lines, but couldn’t prevent the goal. 6/10

Benjamin Tanimu Defender: Played out of position, made the defence vulnerable. 5/10

Semi Ajayi Defender: Rusty, was beaten for pace, a poor defensive display. 4.5/10

Calvin Bassey Defence: Aggressive, occasionally out of position, made good defensive decisions. 6/10

Bright Osayi Samuel Defender: Exposed at left back, missed a scoring chance. 5.5/10

Wilfred Ndidi Midfielder: Struggled, and finished as a centre back. 5.5/10

Fisayo Dele Bashiru Midfielder: Quiet first half, scored a wonderful goal, substituted due to injury. 7.5/10

Alex Iwobi Midfielder: Creative, assisted the goal, among the best players. 7/10

Kelechi Iheanacho Forward: Active in the first half, quiet in the second, substituted. 6/10

Paul Onuachu Forward: Quiet first half, better in the second with aerial prowess. 5/10

Ademola Lookman Forward: Lively but poor decision making, should have scored. 6/10

The Substitutes:

Alhassan Yusuf: Decent performance, replaced Dele Bashiru. 5.5/10

Samuel Chukwueze: Dangerous, almost scored. 7.5/10

Raphael Onyedika: No significant impact. 5/10

Terem Moffi: Missed a clear chance, unimpressive. 4/10

Editorial

The Super Eagles’ performance against South Africa highlighted both strengths and weaknesses within the squad. Fisayo Dele Bashiru’s goal and Alex Iwobi’s creativity were bright spots in an otherwise inconsistent display. The defensive frailties, particularly seen in Semi Ajayi and Benjamin Tanimu, need addressing to strengthen the team’s chances in future matches.

The substitutions brought some life into the game, with Samuel Chukwueze making a notable impact. However, Terem Moffi’s missed opportunity underscored the need for sharper finishing.

As the team prepares for their next fixtures, focusing on improving defensive solidity and decision making in the final third will be crucial. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents like Dele Bashiru and Chukwueze offers hope for a more cohesive and effective team performance going forward.

Did You Know?

• The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, where the match was held, is often referred to as the Nest of Champions.
• Fisayo Dele Bashiru, who scored Nigeria’s goal, is a product of the Manchester City Academy.
• Samuel Chukwueze has been a standout performer for Villarreal in Spain’s La Liga.
• The Super Eagles have a storied history, having won the African Cup of Nations three times.
• Alex Iwobi, one of the key players, currently plays for Fulham in the English Premier League.