Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, displayed visible emotion following the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in the FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers. The match, held in Rwanda due to Zimbabwe’s stadium constraints, saw the hosts take the lead in the 26th minute with a remarkable 30-yard free-kick by Walter Musona. Nigeria responded in the second half when Kelechi Iheanacho netted the equalizer in the 67th minute, salvaging a point for the team.
This result marks Nigeria’s second consecutive 1-1 draw in the qualifiers, following a similar outcome against Lesotho. These back-to-back draws have placed the Super Eagles in a precarious position within Group C. As of March 23, 2025, the group standings are as follows:
- South Africa: 10 points (3 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss)
- Benin: 8 points (2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss)
- Rwanda: 7 points (2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses)
- Nigeria: 6 points (1 win, 3 draws, 1 loss)
- Lesotho: 5 points (1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses)
- Zimbabwe: 3 points (0 wins, 3 draws, 2 losses)
For the latest standings and updates, visit Sky Sports.
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The Super Eagles’ current standing underscores the urgency for improved performances in their remaining fixtures to keep their World Cup aspirations alive. The African qualifiers allocate direct World Cup spots to the winners of each group, with the four best runners-up entering a playoff for another potential qualification.
Complicating matters, reports indicate that Group C leaders South Africa may face a points deduction for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, who had accumulated two prior yellow cards warranting suspension. A similar infraction previously resulted in Nigeria being docked three points during the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.
In light of these developments, Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain. The team must capitalize on upcoming matches and potential shifts in group standings to enhance their qualification prospects.
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