- Victor Osimhen scored a goal in the 73rd minute, but Nigeria’s defence faltered, conceding a heartbreaking last-minute equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe
- Despite Nigeria's attacking dominance and a near goal from Moses Simon, Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper Washington Arubi kept them in the game until the final whistle
- The 1-1 draw left Nigeria in a difficult position in Group C, with only four matches remaining and a challenging road ahead to secure World Cup qualification
Victor Osimhen’s 40th cap for Nigeria was marked with a goal, but his efforts were not enough to secure a crucial win as the Super Eagles conceded a heartbreaking last-minute equalizer in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe in Uyo.
Osimhen, ever the talisman for Nigeria, broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute, capitalising on an Ola Aina cross to put the Super Eagles ahead.
His clinical finish seemed to have set the stage for a much-needed victory, but Zimbabwe had other plans.
Despite Nigeria’s attacking dominance, including several dangerous runs from Moses Simon, Zimbabwean goalkeeper Washington Arubi kept his side in contention.
The visitors nearly responded immediately, with Khama Billiat rattling the crossbar just three minutes after Osimhen’s goal.
The Super Eagles’ defensive frailties were exposed once again in stoppage time when substitute Tawanda Chireda struck, denying Nigeria maximum points and leaving them in a precarious position in Group C.
With four games left, Osimhen and his teammates face an uphill battle to secure a spot at the World Cup, needing a turnaround in form come September and October.
Super Eagles' World Cup hopeful opens up about his struggles with professionalism in football
Previously, TheRadar reported that Despite leading the Belgian Jupiler Pro League’s scoring charts, Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare has admitted that professionalism remains his biggest area for improvement.
The Genk forward, who is nearing the end of a prolific season, reflected on his personal and professional growth in an eye-opening interview.
Arokodare’s revelation comes at an important moment as he prepares to represent Nigeria in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Having been named in the Super Eagles’ final squad, his performances have not gone unnoticed.
