2026 World Cup Qualifier: Super Eagles Aim to Secure a Win Against Zimbabwe in Uyo

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face Zimbabwe in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday evening at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, with kickoff set for 5 PM Nigerian time.

Nigeria comes into the game following a 2-0 win over Rwanda last Friday at the Amahoro Stadium, Kigali, while Zimbabwe played out a 2-2 draw with Benin Republic on the same day.

Both teams have met eight times in the past, with Nigeria winning four, drawing three, and losing once. One of their most memorable encounters was in 2005, when the Super Eagles secured a 5-1 victory over Zimbabwe in a World Cup qualifier.

Current Standings in Group C

Nigeria has had an inconsistent campaign so far, securing only one win in five matches. The three-time African champions sit in 4th place with six points, having drawn three, won one, and lost one.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, remains winless in the qualifiers and currently occupies 6th place (bottom of Group C) with three points from three draws and two losses.

Chelle Eyes Back-to-Back Wins

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle will be aiming for consecutive victories after winning his first match in charge against Rwanda. He has emphasized the need for full concentration ahead of the match.

“There is a second game on March 25th, so we need to be ready for it,” Chelle said, urging his players to stay focused.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe’s head coach, Michael Nees, is determined to cause an upset in Uyo and secure his team’s first win in the qualifiers. The German tactician has warned his players against a slow start, stating:

“Nigeria is an absolute top-level team. We must not allow a slow start in this game. We have to be focused from the first whistle because the goals we conceded against Benin were gifts from us.”

Experts Predict a Super Eagles Victory

Football analysts and coaches have backed Nigeria to take all three points in this crucial clash.

• Emmanuel Brown, former coach of TTC Football Academy, believes the Super Eagles will capitalize on their home advantage at Godswill Akpabio Stadium and secure a comfortable victory.

  “This is a must-win game for Nigeria. If South Africa fails to get a good result against Benin, Nigeria will be just one point behind them in the group,” he told Daily Post.

  “Chelle’s attacking approach is working well, and Nigeria needs to maintain the momentum to keep their qualification hopes alive. Zimbabwe hasn’t won any game so far, and playing at home should give the Eagles a big advantage. I predict a 3-0 win for Nigeria.”

• Femi Fabunmi, Editor of EkoHotBlog, described Zimbabwe as the “whipping boys” of Group C and expects a dominant performance from Nigeria.

  “Since Zimbabwe is struggling in the group, we should defeat them comfortably and boost our chances of making it to America 2026,” Fabunmi said.

  “A draw between Benin and South Africa will also favor Nigeria. My prediction: Nigeria 4, Zimbabwe 0.”

• Audu Ojo, head coach of Dawaki Rangers, also expects a win but cautions against underestimating Zimbabwe.

  “African football is changing, and there are no small teams anymore,” he said.

  “On a good day, a weaker team can surprise a big team. However, I believe Nigeria will secure a 2-0 victory.”

Nigeria still has a realistic chance of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, either by finishing top of Group C or securing a playoff spot as the second-best team overall. However, winning games like this against Zimbabwe is crucial to keeping their hopes alive.

With home support behind them, all eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they aim to secure a much-needed three points in Uyo.