Super Eagles wobble to another 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe

Captain Kelechi Iheanacho rallying his troops during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe…yesterday.

It was supposed to be the game the Super Eagles would use to show that their 1-1 draw in Uyo with Lesotho on Thursday was a minor dent, but yesterday in neutral Rwanda, Jose Peseiro’s boys barely managed to hold the Warriors of Zimbabwe to another 1-1 draw.

For a team, whose managers claim are determined to win next year’s African Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, yesterday’s displays showed that it would take more than mere wishes to accomplish that feat.

Walter Musona put the Warriors in front after 26 minutes with a 35-yard free-kick that eluded goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and sailed into the net.

The Eagles did not play with the stronger mentality and determination they espoused after the 1-1 draw with Lesotho in Uyo on Thursday, as the Warriors, who played their own game against Rwanda a day earlier and better-rested, showed more hunger and desire for the three points.

Moses Simon’s stout shielding of the ball and good decision in the box allowed Kelechi Iheanacho to slam past the goalkeeper for Nigeria’s equalizer after 67 minutes in Butare.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resume in June 2024 with Nigeria hosting South Africa, current leaders of Group C, before travelling to an away game against Benin Republic.

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