The Super Eagles of Nigeria faced a dramatic setback in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign as they were held to a 1-1 draw by the Warriors of Zimbabwe.
The match which took place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, saw Nigeria take the lead through star striker Victor Osimhen.
However, Zimbabwe succeeded in snatching a last-gasp equalizer in the 90th minute, dealing a significant blow to Nigeria’s hopes of securing a spot at the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Coming off a morale-boosting 2-0 victory against Rwanda last week, where Osimhen scored twice, the Super Eagles entered the game with high expectations under new head coach Eric Chelle.
Nigeria dominated much of the proceedings, creating numerous chances in front of a passionate home crowd.
The breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Osimhen head in a pinpoint cross.
However, despite their control, the Super Eagles struggled to convert their dominance into further goals.
Wilfred Ndidi squandered a golden opportunity in the 84th minute, firing wide from close range after being set up by Moses Simon.
The miss would prove costly as Zimbabwe, who had been largely subdued, mounted a late surge.
In the dying minute of the match, Huddersfield Town forward Taranda Chirewa capitalized on a rare defensive lapse.
Racing into the box past a static Nigerian midfield, Chirewa latched onto a through ball and poked it beyond goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, silencing the Uyo crowd.
