2026 WCQ Nigeria v Zimbabwe: Match preview, H2H, what to expect, key players, kickoff time

The Super Eagles, after their superb performance against the Wasps of Rwanda last Friday, will continue their quest for qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday as they face the Warriors of Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Akwa Ibom.

The Super Eagles defeated Rwanda 2-0, courtesy of Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, who scored in the 11th and 45th minutes, moving Nigeria up to fourth position in Group C.

With six points in the bag, Nigeria trails South Africa, who have ten points, and Benin Republic, who have eight, while Rwanda sit third with seven points.

Knowing what is at stake on Tuesday as they face Zimbabwe, the Eagles will leave no stone unturned in their quest to top the group, currently led by South Africa with 10 points.

Having failed to qualify for the last tournament in Qatar following their play-off defeat to the Black Stars of Ghana, all hands are expected to be on deck from Eric Chelle's coaching crew and players as they take to the pitch on Tuesday.

To execute this crucial encounter, more clinical finishing is expected from Galatasaray talisman Osimhen, Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina, and defender Troost Ekong, who plays for Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League, alongside other players in the squad.

Head-to-Head Records

Historically, Nigeria leads Zimbabwe with three wins in their last five meetings. However, their most recent encounter ended in a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the qualifiers in Zimbabwe.

Match Preview

Nigeria has not suffered a defeat against Zimbabwe since 2005, and given the quality of players in the squad, they have a strong chance of securing another victory.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe has yet to win a match in this qualification campaign, recording three draws—0-0 against Rwanda, 1-1 against Nigeria in the first leg, and 2-2 against Benin Republic.

Key players

Victor Osimhen – After scoring a brace against Rwanda on Friday, Osimhen is expected to continue his goal-scoring form. The 26-year-old has been instrumental for Nigeria throughout the qualification series.

Ademola Lookman – The reigning African Footballer of the Year, who plays for Serie A side Atalanta, will be a key attacking threat, looking to break down the Zimbabwean defense and win set pieces for the Eagles.

While the Eagles aim for a convincing victory, Zimbabwe will likely seek to frustrate their efforts and will be content with another draw, as they were against Benin Republic last Thursday.

Venue and Kickoff Time

The match is scheduled for Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 5 p.m. Nigerian time at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Expectations

A comfortable win is expected for the Super Eagles, given their improved form in their last match against Rwanda.

Meanwhile, the Warriors of Zimbabwe will be hoping to secure a draw to hinder Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup.

Kenneth Afor

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