Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes suffered a major blow as the Super Eagles were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Needing a victory to stay within reach of South Africa and Benin, the Super Eagles failed to secure maximum points, leaving their qualification dreams hanging by a thread.
Victor Osimhen had given Nigeria the lead in the 74th minute, raising hopes of a much-needed win.
However, a 90th-minute equaliser from Tawanda Chiwera, who finished off a swift counter-attack, left the Nigerian fans heartbroken.
Player ratings
Stanley Nwabali – 7
Made an excellent save to deny Khama Billiat in the first half but was largely untested until Zimbabwe’s late equaliser, where he had little chance to make a stop.
Ola Aina – 7
A lively presence down the left flank, making good attacking runs and delivering dangerous crosses. Provided the assist for Osimhen’s goal but was occasionally caught out of position defensively.
Calvin Bassey – 8
Nigeria’s standout defender on a disappointing night. Made crucial tackles and was dominant in duels, keeping Zimbabwe’s attack quiet for most of the game.
Bright Osayi-Samuel – 6
Solid at times but struggled with positioning. Could have done better in key defensive moments but showed good athleticism going forward.
William Troost-Ekong – 6
Defended well for large parts of the game, especially in the first half, winning key aerial battles. However, he was slow to react in the build-up to Zimbabwe’s equaliser.
Wilfred Ndidi – 7
Worked tirelessly in midfield, breaking up play and shielding the defence. A composed and disciplined performance, though his impact waned towards the end.
Alex Iwobi – 7
Controlled the tempo in midfield and took a few shots at goal. His energy dropped in the second half, leading to his substitution.
Ademola Lookman – 7
Bright in the first half, constantly looking to take on Zimbabwe’s defence. Had a great chance to score but was denied by some solid defending.
Moses Simon – 6
Had promising moments, especially in the first half, but his final delivery let him down. Improved in the second half but lacked consistency.
Samuel Chukwueze – 5
Another underwhelming performance. Struggled with decision-making and misplaced several crosses before being substituted.
Victor Osimhen – 8
Nigeria’s most dangerous player. Had a few chances saved by the Zimbabwean goalkeeper but eventually got his goal. Unfortunately, his effort was not enough to secure the win.
Substitutes
Tolu Arokodare – 6
Replaced Chukwueze and caused problems aerially. His hold-up play was excellent, and he played a key role in the build-up to Osimhen’s goal.
Raphael Onyedika – 5
Came on for Iwobi but had little influence on the game.
Victor Boniface – N/A
Came on for Osimhen too late to make an impact.
