Super Eagles’ World Cup dream in tatters after late Zimbabwe equaliser

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a crushing blow on Tuesday as the Super Eagles squandered a late lead to draw 1-1 with Zimbabwe in Uyo.

Knowing that only a win would boost their qualification chances, the Eagles faltered under pressure, failing to hold on after Victor Osimhen’s 74th-minute opener.

The packed stadium erupted when the Galatasaray striker nodded in a precise cross from Ola Aina, but celebrations turned to shock as Zimbabwe’s Tawanda Chirewa struck a dramatic equaliser in added time, silencing the home crowd.

The result leaves the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a precarious position, sitting fourth in Group C with just seven points.

South Africa tightened their grip on the group after a 2-0 victory over Benin Republic, extending their lead at the top with 13 points. Rwanda’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho placed them second, while Benin occupied third, leaving Nigeria trailing behind with time running out.