Super Eagles Vs. Zimbabwe 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification Match Preview

Super Eagles Face Zimbabwe in Crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, will take on Zimbabwe in a must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday evening at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 PM Nigerian time.

Nigeria heads into this clash with momentum, having secured a 2-0 victory against Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali last Friday. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe played to a 2-2 draw with Benin Republic in their previous fixture.

Head-to-Head Record: Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe

Historically, Nigeria has dominated this fixture, winning four of their eight previous encounters against Zimbabwe. The Super Eagles have recorded three draws and suffered just one defeat to the Warriors.

One of the most remarkable clashes between both teams occurred in 2005, when Nigeria thrashed Zimbabwe 5-1 in a World Cup qualifier.

Nigeria’s Performance in Group C

The Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification campaign has been a mix of results. After playing five matches, Nigeria has managed just one win, three draws, and one loss, placing them fourth in Group C with six points.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe sits at the bottom of the group (6th place). The Warriors have yet to register a victory in their qualification journey, securing only three points from five matches, following two defeats and three draws.

Coach Eric Chelle Eyes Consecutive Wins

Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, will aim to continue his positive start after securing a 2-0 win over Rwanda in his debut match. The 47-year-old Malian tactician has urged his team to stay focused ahead of the Zimbabwe showdown.

“There is a second game on March 25th, so we need to be ready for this game,” Chelle emphasized.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s head coach, Michael Nees, is determined to secure his team’s first victory in the qualifiers. The German tactician has warned his players against a slow start against Nigeria.

“Nigeria is at an absolute top level. We cannot allow a slow start to the game,” Nees stated.

Experts Predict a Super Eagles Victory

Football analysts and coaches have weighed in on the Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe fixture, predicting a comfortable win for the Super Eagles.

Emmanuel Brown, a former TTC Football Academy coach, believes Nigeria will capitalize on home advantage at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium to secure maximum points.

“This is a must-win game for Nigeria. A win will take their tally to nine points in Group C,” Brown told DAILY POST.

Brown also highlighted the Super Eagles’ attacking strength, emphasizing their renewed drive under Chelle.

“Nigeria has some of the best attackers in Africa. They are playing at home and should dominate this match. I predict a 3-0 win for the Super Eagles.”

Similarly, Femi Fabunmi, Editor of EkoHotBlog, expressed confidence in Nigeria’s chances.

“Zimbabwe are the whooping boys of the group. Nigeria should win convincingly and keep their qualification hopes alive. My prediction: Nigeria 4, Zimbabwe 0.”

Audu Ojo, head coach of Dawaki Rangers, also expects a Super Eagles victory, though he warns that African football is evolving.

“There are no more small teams in football. On a good day, an underdog can shock a giant. However, I believe Nigeria will win this match 2-0.”

Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe: Match Prediction

With Nigeria’s superior squad depth, home advantage, and a revitalized attack, the Super Eagles are heavily favored to win. Given Zimbabwe’s struggles in the qualifiers, Nigeria is expected to dominate possession and create multiple scoring chances.

Predicted Scoreline: Nigeria 3-0 Zimbabwe