March 25, 2025
Tuesday’s last-minute goal from Tawanda Chirewa of Zimbabwe denied Nigeria victory as score line ended 1-1 draw in their Group C World Cup qualifier, leaving Nigerian football fans disappointed as many now doubt the country’s chances of making it to the world cup
The result now placed Nigeria fourth in Group C with seven points, trailing group leaders South Africa by six points
Victor Osimhen’s 73rd minute goal had put Nigeria ahead and the Super Eagles appeared to be heading for three points until Chirewa struck in the 90th minute.
The match, hosted at the The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, saw a Nigeria dominated possession and created several chances with multiple opportunities to extend their lead.
In the 83rd minute, Wilfred Ndidi missed a clear chance after being played in by Moses Simon, skewing his shot wide. Moments later, Osimhen was substituted due to cramp, with Victor Boniface coming on.
Zimbabwe nearly equalized in the 76th minute when Walter Musona’s effort struck the underside of the crossbar after a mix-up between Nwabali and his defenders.
The visitors eventually found their goal in stoppage time through Chirewa, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to earn Zimbabwe a crucial point.
With only a few matches left in the qualifiers, fans have expressed fears that the road to the 2026 World Cup is now an uphill battle for the Super Eagles
