Super Eagles settle for 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in 2026 World Cup Qualifier

In another disappointing outing for the Super Eagles, Nigeria was held to a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on Sunday. The game, hosted at Huye Stadium in Rwanda, witnessed Nigeria manager Jose Peseiro implementing several changes to the starting lineup from their previous match against Lesotho.

The first half lacked significant threats on goal for the Super Eagles, with the exception of a free kick from Moses Simon that was easily handled. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, appeared more dangerous, particularly on the counter-attack. Their efforts paid off when Walter Musona scored from a well-executed free kick.

At the commencement of the second half, Peseiro introduced substitutes Bright Osayi-Samuel, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Victor Boniface, replacing Ola Aina, Nathan Tella, and Frank Onyeka. Shortly after, Nigeria had an opportunity to equalize but faced denial through a goal-line clearance.

In the 67th minute, the Super Eagles finally broke through, as Joe Aribo lofted a pass to Moses Simon, who set up Iheanacho for the equalizing goal. This leveled the match at 1-1. Despite late possession dominance by the Super Eagles, they failed to create clear chances, and Zimbabwe opted to secure the draw.

The outcome leaves both teams tied at two points in World Cup qualifying Group C. Despite the Super Eagles’ on-paper quality, their performances in these qualifiers have fallen short, setting up a challenging task when the qualifiers resume in June next year against group leaders South Africa.