2026 World Cup qualifier: Five observations from Super Eagles embarrassing 1-1 draw v Warriors

The Super Eagles were forced to settle for a disappointing 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe on Tuesday evening in Uyo, dealing a further blow to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes.  

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen put Nigeria ahead in the 74th minute, breaking the deadlock after a tense encounter.

However, the Super Eagles failed to hold on to their lead as Tawanda Chirewa struck in stoppage time, securing a dramatic 90th-minute equalizer for Zimbabwe.  

The result leaves Nigeria struggling to keep pace in the qualification race for the World Cup, which will be hosted in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observation from the game.

Nigeria wasteful in front of Goal

The Super Eagles created numerous goal-scoring opportunities but struggled with their finishing.  

In the first half, both Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman had chances to put Nigeria ahead but were unable to beat the opposing goalkeeper.

The trend continued in the second half, as the team missed several more chances before Osimhen finally broke the deadlock with a well-placed header in the 74th minute.  

Zimbabwe contain Osimhen

Osimhen found it difficult to impose himself on the game, as Zimbabwe’s defenders marked him tightly and limited his influence.

Despite some early attempts, including a few shots saved by the goalkeeper, the Galatasaray striker was largely neutralized.  

To address the situation, coach introduced Tolu Arokodare, who provided much-needed support in attack.

His presence helped create space for Osimhen, leading to the decisive goal in the 74th minute.  

Arokodare's introduction makes difference in attack  

Tolu Arokodare’s entry into the match added more dynamism to Nigeria’s attack.

The Genk striker replaced Samuel Chukwueze and immediately became a valuable target in the box.  

His physicality and ability to hold up play played a crucial role in Nigeria's goal.

He controlled the ball well before laying it off to Ola Aina, who then delivered a pinpoint cross for Osimhen to head home.  

Osimhen suffers possible injury

Although Osimhen eventually found the back of the net, his night ended on a concerning note.

Shortly after scoring, he appeared to sustain an injury and was forced to leave the pitch.

He was subsequently replaced, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of Galatasaray's upcoming fixtures.

Zimbabwe exposes Nigeria’s defensive frailties  

Despite being the underdogs, the Warriors of Zimbabwe took full advantage of Nigeria’s defensive weaknesses, posing a constant threat throughout the game.  

Bottom of Group C, Zimbabwe forced Stanley Nwabali into making crucial saves, struck the crossbar, and eventually found the breakthrough with a late equalizer.  

The Warriors consistently found gaps in Nigeria’s midfield and capitalized on defensive lapses, punishing the Super Eagles with swift counterattacks.

Adeyemi Adewale

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