The Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup have taken a serious hit after a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in their second qualifying match. This comes after their first match against Lesotho also ended in a 1-1 draw. With just two points out of two matches, Nigeria’s main rivals South Africa are currently on top with three points after a win against Benin in their opening game.
South Africa will take on Rwanda on Tuesday, while Lesotho will face Benin in South Africa on the same day. During the Nigeria versus Zimbabwe match, Walter Musona scored for Zimbabwe with an unstoppable free kick from over 30 meters, putting Zimbabwe ahead in the 26th minute. This was Walter Musona’s first goal in six appearances for his country.
In the 65th minute, Kelechi Iheanacho, who came in as a second-half substitute, scored for Nigeria, leveling the match after some excellent work by stand-in captain Moses Simon. Simon held off his marker and passed the ball to Iheanacho, who shot it home. Nigeria continued to push for the winner, but Iwobi’s shot went over the crossbar, and Iheanacho’s header from a cross by Moses Simon missed the target.
Unfortunately, the Eagles were unable to score the winning goal, resulting in a draw. This means Nigeria has dropped four vital points in the two matches they were expected to win. The next round of matches will be played in June 2024.
