Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes suffered a significant setback on Tuesday after the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Despite dominating possession and creating early chances, the Super Eagles struggled to break down a resolute Zimbabwean defense.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 74th minute, courtesy of Victor Osimhen’s expertly headed goal from a low cross by Moses Simon. However, the Super Eagles failed to hold on to their advantage, and a lapse in concentration at the back nearly cost them dearly.

Zimbabwe hit the crossbar before finally drawing level in the 90th minute, thanks to Tawanda Chirewa’s strike past Stanley Nwabali at his near post. The equalizer silenced the home crowd, and the Super Eagles were left frustrated after dropping valuable points yet again.

Nigeria had a late chance to snatch victory, but Wilfred Ndidi failed to convert a clear opportunity. The draw leaves the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification hopes hanging in the balance, and they will need to regroup and refocus for their upcoming matches.

The result will come as a disappointment to Nigerian fans, who were hoping for a convincing win after the team’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda. Instead, the Super Eagles will need to work on their defensive frailties and find a way to close out matches if they hope to qualify for the World Cup.

The Super Eagles will need to bounce back quickly from this setback, with their next qualifying match looming on the horizon. With the World Cup qualification campaign heating up, Nigeria cannot afford to drop many more points if they hope to secure a spot in the tournament.

Nigeria’s situation was worsened by South Africa’s 2-0 victory against Benin Republic on the same day, a result that puts the Bafana Bafana on a six-point advantage in the group over Nigeria.