Nigeria’s bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup suffered a significant setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Cyber Reporters reports that Victor Osimhen’s first-half header seemed to have secured a crucial win for the Super Eagles, but Taranda Chirewa’s 90th-minute equalizer stunned the home crowd.
The draw leaves Nigeria fourth in Group C of the CAF qualifying section, six points adrift of leaders South Africa after six matches.
With only the top team in each group guaranteed a spot at the 2026 World Cup, Nigeria’s upcoming clash with South Africa in September has become a must-win encounter.
According to reports, Nigeria coach has come under pressure following the team’s recent performances.
Nigeria has been struggling to find consistency in their qualifying campaign, with two wins, two draws, and two losses so far.
The team’s fans have expressed their disappointment on social media, calling for improvements in the team’s tactics and player selection.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s coach, Sunday Chidzambwa, praised his team’s resilience and determination, saying that the draw was a “well-deserved” result.
The 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign is expected to intensify in the coming months, with several teams still in contention for a spot in the finals.
Nigeria will need to regroup and refocus ahead of their crucial clash with South Africa in September.
With the Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, the team’s fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of that encounter.
