The World Cup qualifier match between Nigeria and South Africa ended in 1-1 draw. Dele-Bashiru’s equalizer for Nigeria in the 46th minute canceled out Themba Zwane’s 29th-minute goal. Here are the ratings for Nigerian players according to Sports Buddy. These ratings reflect their performances on the pitch.
Nigeria Players Match Rating
Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali – 6.6
Nwabali had commendable game making three crucial saves. Despite conceding goal, he completed 68% of his passes. He made nine ball recoveries. This showed solid presence between the sticks.
Defenders
Semi Ajayi – 6.7
Ajayi was reliable at the back. He completed 95% passes. This included six into the final third. He also contributed defensively with three clearances. And two interceptions. This solidified his position as key defender.
Calvin Bassey – 6.4
Playing as left back Bassey had mixed performance. He completed 89% of his passes. Made two clearances, but lost possession eight times. This affected his overall rating.
Benjamin Tanimu – 6.5
Tanimu right back, completed 77% of passes. He made six successful passes into final third. His defensive stability contributed. This resulted in balanced performance.
Osayi-Samuel – 6.7
Osayi-Samuel had strong game on left flank. He completed 88% of his passes. He also completed 100% of his long balls. He made five passes into final third and one key pass. This showcased his offensive and defensive capabilities.
Midfielders
Alex Iwobi – 7.8
Iwobi was standout midfielder. He provided assist for Nigeria’s only goal. He made three key passes. He also made 15 passes into final third. He completed 87% of his passes. This drove team’s offensive efforts.
Wilfred Ndidi – 6.9
Ndidi was solid in midfield. He completed 88% of his passes. And made eight ball recoveries. His defensive contributions were crucial. Maintaining balance in middle of park.
Wingers
Kelechi Iheanacho – 6.3
Iheanacho had disappointing game. He struggled to make significant impact on right wing. This was reflected in his lower rating.
Dele-Bashiru – 7.6
Dele-Bashiru who scored the equalizer for Nigeria. He had notable performance. His goal was pivotal in securing the draw for the Super Eagles. This justifies his high rating.
Forwards
Paul Onachu – 7.3
Onachu was effective upfront. He created one big chance and made one key pass. His contributions in attack were valuable to team’s performance.
Ademola Lookman – 7.4
Lookman had slightly better game than Onachu. He made three key passes. His creativity and vision in the attacking third were crucial. They were key for Nigeria’s offensive play.
Substitutes
Alhassan Yusuf – 7.2
Yusuf replaced Dele-Bashiru in 61st minute. He made immediate impact. He made one key pass. Created big chance in just 30 minutes of play.
Samuel Chukwueze – 6.7
Chukwueze came on for Iheanacho in the 67th minute. He made one key pass and hit the woodwork once. Although he missed big chance. He showed flashes of his potential.
Raphael Oyedika – 7.0
Oyedika replaced Ajayi in the 80th minute. He made two key passes in short span. This indicated his ability to influence the game quickly.
Terem Moffi – 6.4
Moffi who came on for Onachu in the 80th minute. He had minimal impact with only two touches in 11 minutes, leading to lower rating.
Conclusion
The Nigerian squad exhibited mixed performances against South Africa. Players like Alex Iwobi and Dele-Bashiru stood out with contributions. Others like Kelechi Iheanacho struggled. The Super Eagles will aim to build on this and seek better results in their next match.
