Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a huge hit as the Super Eagles were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Star striker Victor Osimhen gave Nigeria the lead with 15 minutes to go, but a late equaliser from substitute Tawanda Chirewa denied Nigeria a crucial victory in the race for the sole automatic ticket in the group.
Following the much-needed win in Kigali against Rwanda, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle named an unchanged lineup. Nigeria started the game brightly, with Osimhen forcing two early saves from the Zimbabwean goalkeeper, while defender Bright Osayi-Samuel was also denied in a one-on-one situation in the first 10 minutes of the game.
However, the visitors stood strong and threatened on the counter. After a flurry of attacks from the Super Eagles, the Zimbabweans carved out a great chance for themselves when Khama Billiat was denied by Stanley Nwabali, who rushed off his line to clear the imminent danger.
The first half ended goalless, with Nigeria going on to miss several chances, especially via Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi. In addition, the side also had a strong penalty appeal waved away after Osimhen appeared to have been brought down in the box.
Just like the opening half of the game, Nigeria came back from the break motivated, creating several chances but failing to convert. After sustained pressure and no breakthrough, Chelle introduced Tolu Arokodare for Samuel Chukwueze, hoping to break the stubborn backline of the visitors.
Nigeria’s goal finally came in the 74th minute as Arokodare brought down a floated pass from Moses Simon before putting it on the plate for Aina to cross for Osimhen to head home, scoring his 26th international goal.
However, when it seemed Nigeria were going to secure the win – their second in the qualifiers – substitute Chirewa capitalised on a defensive lapse to shoot past Nwabali in the first minute of stoppage time. Chelle’s men tried to get the win, but it was not enough as the Eagles fell short at home once again.
The result leaves Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes hanging in the balance. Meanwhile, in the other games of the group, South Africa defeated Benin Republic 2-0, while Lesotho and Rwanda played out a 1-1 draw in Kigali.
