Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes took another hit as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday.
Victor Osimhen put the Super Eagles ahead in the 74th minute, scoring a header from Ola Aina cross. But just when it seemed Nigeria would secure all three points, a lapse in concentration proved costly.
Tawanda Chirewa capitalized on poor defending in the 90th minute, scoring for Zimbabwe and breaking Nigerian hearts.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle was visibly disappointed after the match, lamenting his team’s missed opportunities.
“What can I say about the first half? Normally, we could have scored ten goals in the first half. You make some mistake in the last technical skills and Zimbabwe comes to defend and stop the game,” Chelle said.
“My players were the best on the pitch with possession football and fast attack.
“I’m so disappointed for my players for the country and the way things are now we have to start looking at second place, we deserve to win but this is football.”
Chelle admitted that fatigue may have played a role in Nigeria’s inability to close out the game.
“I think in the last 10 minutes it was hard for us because we did well in the first half with a lot of intensity so maybe the players were a little tired.”
The result leaves Nigeria in fourth place in Group C with seven points six behind leaders South Africa making automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup a more difficult task.
With only four games left, the Super Eagles must now secure maximum points to keep their hopes alive.
However, there is still a lifeline, as the second-best-placed teams will have a shot at qualification through the intercontinental playoffs.
Time is running out, and Nigeria must find answers fast.
