Zimbabwean winger Tawanda Chirewa has insisted his side will not be intimidated by Nigeria when they meet in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Chirewa, who plays as a right winger for EFL League One club Huddersfield Town, on loan from Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers, remains confident in Zimbabwe’s ability to challenge the Super Eagles despite their struggles in Group C.
“I'm just focused on recovery and preparing to go again on Tuesday against Nigeria, which is a very good team,” Chirewa, 21, told The Standard, as per the Daily Post.
“A lot of their players compete in England and Europe, but I want to go out there and showcase my abilities. Our squad also has plenty of talented players, so there's no reason to fear Nigeria.”
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Zimbabwe currently sit at the bottom of the group with just three points from five matches, making Tuesday’s encounter a must-win if they are to revive their fading qualification hopes.
Meanwhile, Nigeria, under new head coach Eric Chelle, come into the match with renewed confidence following a 2-0 victory over Rwanda last Friday.
The win provided a much-needed boost after a slow start to their campaign, and the Super Eagles will be determined to claim back-to-back wins as they push for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
Historically, Nigeria have dominated this fixture, remaining unbeaten in their last seven encounters with Zimbabwe, winning four and drawing three.
However, with Chirewa and his teammates eager to cause an upset, the Super Eagles will need to guard against complacency.
Eritrean referee Tsegay Teklu Mogos will take charge of the match, with Eyobel Michael and Mengis Sirak Samuel assisting him.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time.
