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Zimbabwe head coach Michael Nees believes his side deserved more than just a point after their dramatic 1-1 draw against Nigeria in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Footynaija.com reports.
Victor Osimhen’s 74th-minute goal seemed to have secured victory for the Super Eagles, but Zimbabwe struck deep into stoppage time, with substitute Tawanda Chirewa capitalising on a defensive lapse to snatch a late equaliser.
Nigeria, fresh from a 2-0 win over Rwanda, started with intensity, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. However, the Warriors stood firm, frustrating the hosts with disciplined defending.
Osimhen finally broke the deadlock in the second half, guiding Ola Aina’s precise low cross into the far post with a well-placed header, sparking celebrations among the home crowd. The Super Eagles had an opportunity to put the game beyond reach, but Wilfred Ndidi squandered a golden chance when put through on goal.
That miss proved costly as Zimbabwe, who had threatened with sporadic counterattacks, found a way back. Chirewa, left unmarked in the box, drilled a low shot past Stanley Nwabali at his near post in the 90th minute, sending the visiting bench into raptures and leaving Nigeria’s qualification hopes uncertain.
Tawanda Chirewa with excellent close control
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 25, 2025
Zimbabwe stun Nigeria with a late equaliser to give Bafana Bafana the advantage in Group C ⚽#SSDiski | #TotalEnergiesWCQ2026 pic.twitter.com/pemAkmJske
After the match, Nees praised his players for their resilience, while faulting Nigeria’s defence.
“Nigeria came into the game full of confidence after their win against Rwanda, and we knew that the longer the game went on, the slower they would become—and that is exactly what happened,” said the German coach.
“We showed that we don’t give up, and I think with three more minutes, we would have come away with a win because, in defence, your team was physically exhausted.
“We showed that we can play football; we didn’t just park the bus. Nigeria started aggressively and wanted to end the game quickly, but it didn’t work out. We resisted and showed resilience.”
The result leaves Nigeria with work to do in their qualification campaign, as they look to recover from a setback that could prove costly in their bid for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
