In a third round 2013 African Youth Championships qualifier, the Flying Eagles played a 1 - 1 draw with the South Africa Under 20 squad at the Mbombela Stadium on Friday evening.

Amajita's golden boy Thabani Mthembu had given the home team the lead after 13 minutes. Abdul Jeleel Ajagun drew Nigeria level nine minutes into the second half, scoring with a header from a corner kick.

Real Mallorca forward Cedric Omoigui did not make the trip to South Africa, but is confident his teammates will finish the business in the reverse fixture.

Omoigui told allnigeriasoccer.com: ''Definitely a good result to go away in Africa and play a draw. I am happy with this result and I wish the team the best in two weeks time. With the support of the fans, we can get the win we need in the return leg. It is unfortunate I could not make the trip to South Africa. I had commitments with the Mallorca Youth Team.

''I gained a lot by camping with the Under 20 squad in July. Now that I have returned to Mallorca, my performance in the league is better than that of last season. That is why I am thanking the coach for making me improve on my weak areas.''

Nigeria will confirm her place in next year's tourney in Algeria if the team keeps a clean-sheet in the return leg on October 7 in Ilorin.