Zimbabwe netted a late equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, putting the three-time African champions’ hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in jeopardy.
Coming from a 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali on Friday, the Super Eagles looked to build momentum in their quest for a place at the global showpiece.
Right from the start, Nigeria pressed forward, creating multiple opportunities, but a combination of resolute Zimbabwean defending and poor finishing kept the scoreline level.
Nigeria’s relentless pressure finally paid off when Victor Osimhen in the 74th minute rose to the occasion, meeting a precise low cross from Ola Aina with a well-placed header into the far post—sending the home fans into celebration.
The Super Eagles nearly doubled their advantage moments later, but Wilfred Ndidi failed to capitalise when cleared through on goal.
The miss proved costly, as Zimbabwe, who had threatened with sporadic counterattacks, found their equaliser at the death.
A defensive lapse allowed Tawanda Chirewa to slot past Stanley Nwabali at his near post in the 90th minute, silencing the home crowd and leaving Nigeria’s qualification bid hanging in the balance.
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