Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a significant setback after Zimbabwe scored a dramatic last-minute equalizer to snatch a 1-1 draw in Uyo.
Victor Osimhen’s diving header had put the Super Eagles on the verge of a crucial victory, but Tawanda Chirewa, on loan at Huddersfield, stunned the home crowd in the 90th minute by slotting the ball past Stanley Nwabali.
The draw leaves Nigeria trailing Group C leaders South Africa by six points after six matches. South Africa secured a 2-0 away win against Benin. Nigeria now sits fourth in the group, behind Rwanda and Benin.
With only the nine group winners guaranteed a spot in the expanded 48-team tournament, Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the finals in the United States, Mexico, and Canada are now hanging in the balance. The best four second-placed teams will have a further playoff opportunity for an intercontinental tournament.
Zimbabwe’s late goal has piled pressure on Nigeria and their new coach Eric Chelle, especially after a slow start to their qualifying campaign.
Despite creating numerous chances, including several saves from the Zimbabwean goalkeeper and an earlier goal from Osimhen, Nigeria failed to secure the win, now needing favorable results in other matches to revive their World Cup aspirations.
