Nigeria's World Cup Hopes Diminish After Zimbabwe's Last-Minute Equalizer

A 1-1 draw leaves Nigeria fourth in Group C with slim chances of qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Tawanda Chirewa's 90th-minute goal secured a 1-1 draw for Zimbabwe, dealing a major blow to Nigeria's qualification campaign.
Victor Osimhen had given Nigeria the lead in the 74th minute, but the team failed to hold on for a crucial victory.
Nigeria remains in fourth place in Group C with seven points, trailing leaders South Africa, who now have 13 points after defeating Benin.
Only group winners qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup, while the best runners-up advance to playoffs, adding pressure to Nigeria's remaining matches.
Head coach Eric Chelle, appointed in January 2025, faces mounting challenges in his mission to lead Nigeria back to the World Cup after missing the 2022 tournament.