Zimbabwe Hold Nigeria to Dramatic Draw in World Cup Qualifier
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Zimbabwe delivered a stunning blow to Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes with a last-minute equaliser in Tuesday’s Group C clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. The Super Eagles looked set for victory after Victor Osimhen’s 74th-minute header, but Huddersfield Town forward Tawanda Chirewa pounced in the 90th minute to secure a vital 1-1 draw for the Warriors.
Nigeria dominated possession but struggled to break down Zimbabwe’s defence until Ola Aina’s pinpoint cross found Osimhen, who powered home his header. Just as the hosts thought they had secured three points, 21-year-old Chirewa capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home from close range. The result leaves Nigeria in fourth place with six points from six matches, while Zimbabwe remain bottom with five points. South Africa now lead the group after their 2-0 victory over Benin.
With only the group winners automatically qualifying for the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Nigeria now face an uphill battle after missing the 2022 World Cup. Zimbabwe showed remarkable resilience despite being underdogs, while South Africa emerge as group favourites with 12 points. Both teams return to action in June, with Nigeria hosting South Africa in a crucial encounter and Zimbabwe welcoming Rwanda to Harare.
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