Overview

• Tawanda Chirewa's 90th-minute goal secured a 1-1 draw for Zimbabwe, dealing a major blow to Nigeria's qualification campaign.
• Victor Osimhen had given Nigeria the lead in the 74th minute, but the team failed to hold on for a crucial victory.
• Nigeria remains in fourth place in Group C with seven points, trailing leaders South Africa, who now have 13 points after defeating Benin.
• Only group winners qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup, while the best runners-up advance to playoffs, adding pressure to Nigeria's remaining matches.
• Head coach Eric Chelle, appointed in January 2025, faces mounting challenges in his mission to lead Nigeria back to the World Cup after missing the 2022 tournament.