Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes suffered a significant setback after being held to a 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in a tense Group C encounter at Uyo Stadium.
The Super Eagles, managed by Eric Chelle, dominated much of the match but were denied a crucial victory by a last-minute equaliser from Tawanda Chirewa.
Victor Osimhen emerged as the primary bright spot for Nigeria, scoring his third goal in two qualifying matches with a well-placed header in the 74th minute.
The Galatasaray striker connected with a precise cross from Moses Simon, momentarily lifting Nigerian hopes of climbing closer to automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup tournament.
Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper Washington Arubi played a pivotal role in keeping the match competitive, producing multiple outstanding saves throughout the game.
The 39-year-old custodian thwarted several Nigerian attacks, including impressive stops against Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon in the first half.
The draw leaves Nigeria in a challenging position within Group C, currently sitting third with seven points from six matches.
The team trails group leaders South Africa which has 18 points by six points and remains one point behind Rwanda, which has eight points and Benin, with four qualification matches remaining.
The most likely path to the World Cup now appears to be through the play-off route.
Chirewa’s dramatic stoppage-time equaliser not only rescued a point for Zimbabwe but also dealt a significant blow to Nigeria’s direct qualification aspirations.
Chelle’s charges will need to regroup and strategise carefully when they host Rwanda in the next qualifying match scheduled for September.
