By Abiodun Ajose, Lagos
The Super Eagles of Nigeria last night at the Goodwill Akpabio International stadium in Uyo bungled their brightest chances of still picking up one of the tickets for the 2026 FIFA world cup after a last-minute goal from Tawanda Chirewa denied the Nigerian side victory as Zimbabwe secured a 1-1 draw in their Group C World Cup qualifier .
Nigeria dominated possession and created several chances with the likes of Victor Osimhen,Tolu Arokodare, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, wasteful at some point in front of goal.
Victor Osimhen however put the three times champions ahead in the 73rd minute with a well-placed header from Ola Aina’s cross. The Super Eagles appeared to be heading for three points until the visitor got a late minute goal to level the game.
Zimbabwe almost got an equalizer in the 76th minute when Walter Musona’s effort struck the underside of the crossbar after a mix-up between Nwabali and his defenders.
The visitors eventually found their goal in stoppage time through Chirewa, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to earn Zimbabwe a crucial point.
The result leaves Nigeria in third place with 7 points in Group C, as Lesotho’s late equalizer against Rwanda meant the Super Eagles missed the chance to move up to second.
The Bafana Bafana of South Africa tops the group with a massive 13 points after defeating the Squirrels of Benin Republic.
Nigeria’s next fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa in September will be another crucial opportunity to regain momentum as they continue their World Cup qualifying campaign.
