Nigeria’s quest for automatic qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a setback as the Super Eagles conceded a last-minute equalizer to draw 1-1 with Zimbabwe in Uyo. Despite Victor Osimhen’s second-half goal, Tawanda Chirewa’s late strike ensured the visitors left with a crucial point.
Coming off a 2-0 win against Rwanda, hopes were high for Eric Chelle’s men to secure back-to-back victories. Chelle named an unchanged lineup, with Osimhen and Bright Osayi-Samuel both fit to start.
The Super Eagles dominated proceedings, but Zimbabwe’s 39-year-old goalkeeper, Washington Arubi, put in a heroic performance. He denied Osimhen twice in quick succession before bravely stopping Osayi-Samuel. Ademola Lookman also saw his effort blocked in a frustrating first half for Nigeria.
After the break, Nigeria intensified their attack, with Alex Iwobi and substitute Tolu Arokodare forcing more saves from Arubi. The breakthrough finally came when Arokodare held up play and released Ola Aina, whose cross was headed home by Osimhen his third goal in two games.
Wilfred Ndidi had a golden chance to seal the win but sliced his shot wide, and Nigeria paid the price in the 90th minute. Chirewa capitalized on a defensive lapse, toe-poking the ball past Stanley Nwabali to stun the home crowd.
With South Africa defeating Benin 2-0, Nigeria now sits six points behind the group leaders and one point off second-placed Rwanda. With four games left, Chelle’s side faces a tough battle, with a play-off spot now looking like their most realistic route to the World Cup.
