By Emmanuel Ameh
The Super Eagles of Nigeria left many Nigerians frustrated following a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe last Tuesday in Uyo. The draw leaves Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes hanging in the balance, with the team now needing to win their remaining matches to stand a chance of reaching the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Eagles were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in their 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers Matchday 6 fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, on Tuesday.
Victor Osimhen’s late header had given Nigeria the lead, but Tawanda Chirewa’s equalizer in the dying minutes of the game ensured that Zimbabwe earned a valuable point on the road.
Nigeria started the game brightly, with Osimhen having two big chances in the opening 10 minutes. However, Zimbabwe’s resolute defense and goalkeeper denied the Super Eagles time and again, until Osimhen finally broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute.
However, Nigeria’s joy was short-lived, as Chirewa’s equalizer in the 88th minute ensured that Zimbabwe earned a valuable point on the road.
The Galatasaray striker’s header was his 26th international goal and seventh in World Cup qualifying, moving him past Yakubu Aiyegbeni’s record of six. Only Obafemi Martins, with 10 goals has now scored more World Cup qualifying goals for Nigeria.
The result leaves Nigeria with seven points from six matches, while Zimbabwe has four points from six matches. The top two teams in each group will qualify for the 2026 World Cup
Nigeria’s next World Cup qualifier is against South Africa on June 14, 2025, while Zimbabwe face Lesotho on the same day.
