“We respect Nigeria but not much” – Cardiff City star backs Zimbabwe to shock Super Eagles in Uyo

Zimbabwe midfielder Andy Rinomhota is confident the Warriors can pull off an upset against Nigeria when the two sides meet in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday, Soccernet.ng reports.

Nigeria, under new head coach Eric Chelle, head into the fixture with momentum on their side after a convincing 2-0 victory over Rwanda last Friday.

The result reignited their faltering qualification campaign, and the Super Eagles will be determined to secure back-to-back wins as they look to climb the Group C standings.

For Zimbabwe, the challenge is even greater. They sit at the bottom of the group with just three points from five games and must produce a special performance to keep their fading hopes alive.

However, Rinomhota insists the Warriors are not in Uyo just to make up the numbers.

“We respect Nigeria, but not too much” – Zimbabwe’s Rinomhota

Rinomhota, who plays for Cardiff City in England, made his Zimbabwe debut in the reverse fixture in November 2023, a 1-1 draw played on neutral ground in Rwanda. The midfielder believes his side can go one better this time.

“We’re optimistic. We got a result against Nigeria last time, even though it was technically a home game in Rwanda,” Rinomhota said.

“That was my first game – it was a big test, and the team did well to draw.

“This time, we want to go a step further. We respect Nigeria, but not too much. We’ll try to impose ourselves. We’ve come here to get a result and keep pushing towards our goal.”

Harsh Uyo weather, an extra challenge

With Zimbabwe already facing an uphill task against a star-studded Nigerian side, the sweltering conditions in Uyo could make things even tougher.

Temperatures soared to 32°C during their training session on Monday, with humidity levels at 40 percent.

Rinomhota admits the weather will be a factor but insists his team is preparing well.

“I think it’s going to be quite warm and humid. We’re preparing ourselves, even though the game’s later. We had similar conditions against Cameroon last year in the AFCON qualifiers,” he said.

“We’re trying to start the game well. Everyone is focused on acclimatising fully. The conditions are definitely on everyone’s mind.”

Zimbabwe’s training session took place at the peak of the day’s heat, with players taking frequent hydration breaks to adjust to the climate. At kickoff on Tuesday, expected to be at 33°C with 42 percent humidity, endurance will be as crucial as technical ability.

Nigeria hold historical edge over Zimbabwe

Despite Rinomhota’s optimism, history favours Nigeria in this fixture.

The Super Eagles remain unbeaten in their last seven meetings with Zimbabwe, winning four and drawing three. With Chelle’s men aiming to make a statement under new management, they will be wary of any complacency.

The match will be officiated by Eritrean referee Tsegay Teklu Mogos, assisted by Eyobel Michael and Mengis Sirak Samuel.

Kickoff is scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time and with the sun expected to set just before full-time, conditions will remain punishing throughout.