Nigeria U23 coach Amapakabo sent out the same starting lineup that secured the win over Zambia last time out in Cairo.
Chances were pretty scanty between the two sides in the opening exchanges as the South Africans dropped back to draw the Nigerian press, and after Anthony Izuchukwu had failed to keep his header down from Kelechi Nwakali’s corner, it was Ndifreke Effiong who forced Darren Johnson into parrying for a corner.
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Ibrahim Sunusi could have put the Olympic Eagles ahead in the 25th minute but his tame effort missed target to the left side of goal.
Nigeria goalie Adamu Abubakar was called into action at the other end when he smothered Kamohelo Mahlatsi effort aimed at the top corner of his goal.
Nigeria rode their luck a couple of occasions in the game, with the likes of Siyabonga Ngezana, Mahlatsi and Katlego Mohamme looking dangerous deep into the second half.
Second half substitute Sunday Faleye could have won it for Nigeria deep into stoppage time but he could only send his header wide from the centre of the box after Taiwo Awoniyi had set him up with a good cross.
Nigeria’s starting XI: Adamu Abubakar, Bitok Stephen, Valentine Ozonwafor, Anthony Izuchukwu, Seth Sincere, Azubuike Okechukwu, Kelechi Nwakali, Orji Okonkwo, Ndifreke Udo, Ibrahim Sanusi, Taiwo Awoniyi
