The Super Eagles of Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw by the Warriors of Zimbabwe in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match played on Sunday in Rwanda. The result marked another lackluster performance from the Super Eagles, who also drew their first qualifier against Lesotho.
Zimbabwe took the lead in the 26th minute with a spectacular 35-yard free-kick by Walter Musona, which beat Nigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho. The Warriors’ early advantage put pressure on Nigeria, who struggled to create clear chances in the first half.
However, substitutions made by Nigeria’s head coach, Jose Peseiro, paid off in the second half. Kelechi Iheanacho, who came off the bench, scored the equalizer in the 67th minute to level the match at 1-1. Despite their efforts to find a winner, the Super Eagles were thwarted by Zimbabwe’s resilient defense.
Following the game, Nigerian fans expressed their frustration with the team’s performance, calling for changes in the coaching staff and the replacement of goalkeeper Uzoho. Critics raised doubts about Peseiro’s ability to lead Nigeria successfully through the World Cup qualifiers and the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations.
The draw places Nigeria in second place in Group C with two points from two games, trailing group leaders South Africa, who have three points from one game. The Super Eagles will need to improve in their upcoming fixtures to boost their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.