Terem Moffi, Kenneth Omeruo and Stanley Nwabali of Nigeria during the Afcon 2023 Semi Final match between Nigeria and South Africa [Photo credit/Imago]
Super Eagles of Nigeria are in search of all points when they tackle Zimbabwe to boost their chances for the 2026 World Cup qualification, Soccernet.ng reports.
This is due to their dismal start in the campaign, where they drew Lesotho and Zimbabwe in their first two Group C games. To add salt to their injury, they further drew South Africa and lost to the Benin Republic.
With two crucial fixtures—South Africa vs. Benin and Rwanda vs. Lesotho—the outcomes of both matches could have significant implications for Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
The Super Eagles, who were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa and then suffered a 2-1 loss to Benin Republic in Abidjan, sit fourth in the group, despite their recent victory against Rwanda.
With six points from these five matches, Nigeria is currently behind South Africa (10 pts), Benin (8 pts), and Rwanda (7 pts). Only the top two in the group will secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which makes every point and result crucial.
South Africa, who defeated Benin 2-1 in their opening match, will look to strengthen their hold at the top of the group when they face Gernot Rohr’s Benin in Abidjan.
A win for Bafana Bafana would push them to 13 points, widening the gap further between them and Nigeria. However, a draw or loss could reopen the race for the top spot — giving the Super Eagles a fighting chance when they face Benin and South Africa in the return legs.
In the other Group C match, Rwanda face Lesotho — a side that frustrated Nigeria with a draw in Uyo. Rwanda will aim to revive their World Cup chances with a home win, while Lesotho hopes to prove their result in Nigeria was not a fluke.
For Nigeria, a win for Rwanda and a draw in this game might be the most favourable outcome. It would keep Rwanda within reach while preventing Lesotho from leapfrogging further up the table.
While other results will affect the table, Nigeria must take responsibility and win their remaining matches — including tricky away ties against Benin, Rwanda, and South Africa.
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