Nigeria’s dream of playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup took a hit after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The match, played on Tuesday, saw the Super Eagles struggle to break down their determined opponents.

Victor Osimhen gave Nigeria the lead in the 74th minute with a powerful header. However, Zimbabwe fought back and equalized in stoppage time when Tawanda Chirewa beat goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

After the match, Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, explained what he told his players after Osimhen’s goal. He said he encouraged them to push for another goal but admitted they were tired. He also noted that a small defensive mistake led to the late equalizer, similar to the goal conceded against Rwanda in an earlier game.

Nigeria now sits in fourth place in Group C with seven points, six points behind group leaders South Africa. With only four matches left, the Super Eagles must win their remaining games to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.