The Super Eagles missed a big opportunity to close the gap on Group C leaders South Africa, settling for a frustrating 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in Uyo. Victor Osimhen’s powerful header looked to have secured back-to-back wins for Eric Chelle’s side, but a late equaliser from Tawanda Chirewa silenced the home crowd and left Nigeria with work to do.
Here are five key takeaways from a dissapointing World Cup qualifier.
1. Playoffs Are Now the Most Likely Route
With six matches played, Nigeria sit fourth in the group, six points behind leaders South Africa. The top team qualifies automatically for the 2026 World Cup, but with just four games to go, it’s now more realistic to target second place and hope to qualify through the intercontinental playoffs. It’s not what anyone hoped for, but it might be the only way.
Éric Chelle says second-place is now the target in Group C.
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Will the Super Eagles make it to World Cup 2026? ??? pic.twitter.com/CbfDZIRTph
2. Osimhen Can’t Carry This Team Alone
Victor Osimhen was once again Nigeria’s standout player — his movement, hunger, and eventual goal were top class. But it’s telling that the Super Eagles still rely on him so heavily. Without more support in front of goal, Nigeria are too one-dimensional. Players like Lookman, Simon and Iwobi must start contributing more consistently in the final third.
Tension between the two Victors at full-time yesterday ?
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You could really feel the frustration after another missed opportunity.
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3. Fatigue and Poor Game Management Cost Nigeria Late
Eric Chelle admitted his team ran out of steam in the final stages. Nigeria dominated the ball early on, but couldn’t maintain the same level of pressing or control in the second half. As legs tired, concentration dipped — and Zimbabwe made them pay. Learning to manage games better, especially when leading, must become a priority.
“In the second half, when we scored the goal, we thought maybe it is finished,” Chelle admitted. “We need to manage the game better.”
4. The Defensive Gaps Are Still a Big Concern
This isn’t the first time Nigeria have switched off late and conceded a crucial goal. Zimbabwe found space between the lines throughout the game and could’ve scored earlier, hitting the woodwork and forced a couple of saves. Whether it’s a lack of communication, composure, or midfield cover, the Super Eagles are far too easy to play through at times.
5. Chelle’s Tactical Choices Need Refining
African Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman was deployed in a central playmaker role but barely saw the ball. The narrow 4-4-2 diamond system didn’t suit the personnel, and Nigeria struggled to stretch Zimbabwe’s low block. Chelle may still be figuring out his best setup, but tactical clarity is needed, and fast.
“Maybe now we say the choice was not good,” Chelle said of Lookman’s role. “But if we win, we say the choice was good.”
The road to 2026 just got steeper, but for now It’s back to business as club football returns this weekend. Get your bets in with Bet9ja!
