Fans slam Eric Chelle after Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa

Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were dealt another blow after the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday evening, and frustrated fans have taken to social media to voice their displeasure.

Supporters believe head coach Eric Chelle made costly tactical errors in the first half, which ultimately denied the three-time African champions all three points against a Bafana Bafana side many Nigerians felt were “there for the taking.”

One fan wrote, “Eric Chelle got it all wrong in the first half, if not, we should have won this game. The South Africans aren't that fantastic, now we're almost out of the World Cup.”

The Super Eagles went into the clash under immense pressure, sitting behind both South Africa and Benin in Group C. While Super Eagles equaliser ensured Chelle’s men avoided defeat, the result leaves Nigeria with a steep uphill battle to secure automatic qualification.

Many fans online argued that the team looked disjointed and lacked urgency in the opening 45 minutes. Others criticised Chelle’s decision to start with certain players, insisting substitutions and tactical adjustments came too late to swing the game in Nigeria’s favour.

Despite the disappointment, some supporters pointed out that the Super Eagles still have mathematical chances of qualifying if they can win their remaining fixtures.

The draw means South Africa remain top of the group, while Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup is becoming increasingly narrow.