In an intense clash during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matchday two fixture at the Huye Stadium, Butare, the Super Eagles managed to secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe on Sunday afternoon.
The Warriors initially adopted a defensive strategy, allowing Nigeria to control the tempo of the game. The early opportunities favored Nigeria, notably with Terem Moffi failing to convert Moses Simon’s cross into a goal.
However, it was Walter Musona who broke the deadlock for the hosts, seizing the lead with a powerful free kick from outside the box in the 26th minute.
Super Eagles’ head coach, Jose Peseiro, initiated three crucial changes during halftime, bringing in Bright Osayi-Samuel, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Victor Boniface for Ola Aina, Frank Onyeka, and Nathan Tella.
Yet, Zimbabwe gained momentum post-break and began asserting themselves in the match. The turning point arrived when substitute Iheanacho leveled the score for the Super Eagles, netting an equalizer 25 minutes before the final whistle.
With this draw, the Super Eagles have accumulated two points from their first two games in the qualifiers. Peseiro’s team will host the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in their upcoming qualifying match, scheduled for June 2024.
