Nigeria’s hopes of topping Group C in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers suffered a heavy blow. The Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in a match full of drama at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Fans were hopeful after Nigeria’s last away win. Many expected the Super Eagles to grab another easy three points against Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe had previously drawn 2-2 with Benin. On paper, this looked like a winnable match for Nigeria.
However, things did not go according to plan.
Slow Start, Missed Chances
From the first whistle, both teams started with energy. Nigeria looked the more dangerous side in the early minutes. In the 2nd minute, Iwobi passed to Simon, but the shot went straight to the Zimbabwe keeper.
Lookman was active on the wings. In the 15th minute, he fired a shot that hit the crossbar. A minute later, Moses Simon also missed a great chance in the box. Despite all the pressure, Nigeria couldn’t convert.
Zimbabwe too had their moments. Walter nearly scored in the 14th minute after catching Nigeria’s defense off guard. His shot skimmed the top of the net.
By halftime, the score remained 0-0. Both teams created chances, but the finishing was poor.
Osimhen’s Goal Lifts Nigeria
The second half brought more life into the game. Nigeria kept pushing, but Zimbabwe’s defense stayed tight. Chukwueze and Iwobi had good chances but couldn’t deliver the final blow.
Coach made changes. Arokodare came in for Chukwueze in the 58th minute. Moments later, Lookman tried again from a free kick, but Zimbabwe defended well.
Finally, in the 73rd minute, the breakthrough came. Arokodare passed to Aina, who returned the ball. Osimhen finished with class, giving Nigeria a 1-0 lead. The crowd at Uyo erupted with joy.
It felt like Nigeria had sealed the win.
Late Heartbreak for the Super Eagles
With the clock ticking, Nigeria looked to defend the lead. Zimbabwe kept pressing but couldn’t find the equalizer.
In the 76th minute, Zimbabwe almost scored. A fierce shot rattled the crossbar. That was a big warning sign.
In stoppage time, disaster struck. In the 90th minute, Zimbabwe finally found the net. A late goal leveled the score at 1-1. Nigerian fans were left in shock.
Despite a few late attempts, the Super Eagles couldn’t grab the winner. The referee blew the final whistle. It was a disappointing end to what could’ve been a big night.
What This Means for Nigeria
With the draw, Nigeria now has seven points. That puts them in fourth place in Group C. South Africa, who won their game, now sit on top with 13 points.
It’s now an uphill battle for Nigeria. They must win their remaining matches to keep their World Cup dream alive. The team must also find better ways to finish their chances.
The coaching staff will need to go back to the drawing board. Osimhen’s form is still solid, but the team must improve overall.
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It was a dramatic evening in Uyo. Nigeria gave it their all, but Zimbabwe refused to go down.
As fans, we continue to hope for better days ahead. For now, we keep supporting our Super Eagles.
For all the updates on Nigeria’s World Cup journey and other exciting sports news, stay tuned to Bangbet News Nigeria.
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