The Zimbabwean national team players have been offered a $150,000 (approximately N300m) cash reward each to secure victory over Nigeria in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
This development comes as Zimbabwe’s government looks to motivate the Warriors ahead of their crucial encounter against the Super Eagles in Uyo.
Initially, the team was promised $150,000 if they defeated Benin on Thursday, but the match ended in a 2-2 draw, denying them the reward.
However, the same amount has now been earmarked should they pull off a major upset against Nigeria, a three-time African champion.
While the offer is seen as a huge morale booster for Zimbabwe, some football analysts believe it underestimates Nigeria’s football pedigree.
Nigeria’s campaign for the expanded 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has been anything but smooth.
The Super Eagles have failed to win any of their four qualifiers, currently sitting fifth in Group C behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.
With Zimbabwe highly motivated by the cash reward, Nigeria will need to deliver a winning performance in Uyo to avoid further setback.
