Victor Osimhen expressed his frustration after Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in a World Cup qualifier.
Following a 2-0 victory over Rwanda, which reignited their hopes for the 2026 World Cup qualification, Nigeria was expected to secure a win against Zimbabwe, a team ranked 121st in the world.
The Super Eagles appeared to be on track for that victory when Osimhen scored the opening goal in the 74th minute, heading in a precise cross from Ola Aina.
However, Nigeria could not maintain their lead, as Tawanda Chirewa, currently on loan at Huddersfield from Wolves, equalized in the 90th minute, leaving many fans at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium stunned.
Osimhen, who was substituted for Victor Bonafice shortly before the end of the match, was seen storming off the pitch in a video shared on social media, communicating with Bonafice. It was evident that he was upset about the result.
With this draw, Nigeria now trails Group C leaders South Africa by six points, following South Africa’s 2-0 win against Benin. With four games remaining, the Super Eagles’ chances for automatic qualification for the World Cup next summer seem slim, although they still have a potential path to a playoff spot.
After the match, Nigeria’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, commented, “I am so disappointed for my players and for the country because we couldn’t secure the win against Zimbabwe. I’m not aware of the results from other matches, but I believe we can still qualify as the second-best team.”
World Cup qualification for the Super Eagles will resume in September when they face Rwanda and South Africa in a crucial double-header.
