Nigeria Held to a Frustrating Draw by Zimbabwe in World Cup Qualifier
Nigeria endured a frustrating evening after being held to a 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in their Group C World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. The Super Eagles, featuring star striker Victor Osimhen, were unable to secure all three points as Zimbabwe’s resilience paid off late in the game.
Osimhen, who had played a key role in Nigeria’s previous victory over Rwanda, finally found the breakthrough in the second half, finishing off an assist from Ola Aina. However, just when Nigeria seemed set for victory, Tawanda Chirewa struck in the dying moments to salvage a point for the Warriors. Zimbabwe, who had also fought back from two goals down to draw with Benin in their last match, once again displayed determination to deny their opponents maximum points.
Rwanda 1-1 Lesotho
In Group D, Rwanda moved up to second place despite being held to a 1-1 draw by Lesotho in Kigali. Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Fabrice Ntwari started for the hosts, while former PSL player Tshwarelo Bereng featured for Lesotho.
Rwanda broke the deadlock in the second half when Jojea Kwizera latched onto a long ball and finished clinically. However, Lesotho responded late through Lehlohonolo Fothoane, ensuring they left with a valuable point.
Uganda 1-0 Guinea
Uganda strengthened their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup with a narrow 1-0 win over Guinea in Group G. South African-based goalkeeper Ismail Watenga started on the bench for the Cranes, while Serhou Guirassy led the attack for Guinea.
Allan Okello’s well-taken strike just before halftime proved to be the difference, as Uganda held firm to secure an important victory. Despite their efforts, Guinea was unable to stage a comeback and suffered a setback in their qualification campaign.
Angola 1-2 Cape Verde
Cape Verde moved closer to securing a historic World Cup qualification after claiming a 2-1 away win against Angola in Group D.
The visitors made two early substitutions, bringing on Telmo Arcanjo and Dailon Livramento, and the changes paid off as Livramento opened the scoring just before halftime following a layoff from Jovane Cabral.
Angola responded quickly after the break, with Gelson Dala leveling the scores. However, Cape Verde regained the lead when Livramento struck again, sealing a crucial victory that keeps their World Cup dreams alive.
