Nigeria’s chances of climbing up Group C were significantly dented after a dramatic 1-1 draw at home against Zimbabwe in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The match, played in Uyo, saw the Super Eagles concede a stoppage-time equalizer, leaving the home crowd heartbroken.
Victor Osimhen gave Nigeria the lead in the 74th minute, rising to head home a cross from the right, following sustained pressure from the home side. It seemed like the goal would secure the vital three points Nigeria desperately needed to advance in the group.
However, in the dying seconds of the game, Zimbabwe stunned Nigeria with a precise 90th-minute strike from Tawanda Chirewa, who calmly finished past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili to level the score at 1-1.
This disappointing result leaves Nigeria with only seven points after six matches, maintaining their position in fourth place in Group C. Despite a strong start in their previous match with a brace from Osimhen against Rwanda, the Super Eagles have struggled with consistency, having won just one of their six qualifiers so far.
With four matches left, including crucial encounters against Rwanda and Group leaders South Africa, Nigeria’s World Cup dreams are now hanging by a thread. The Super Eagles will need to step up their performances if they are to make a late charge for qualification.