The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to take on the Warriors of Zimbabwe in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. The match will be played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with kickoff scheduled for 5 PM Nigerian time.
Nigeria Aiming to Build on Momentum
Nigeria enters this fixture on the back of a convincing 2-0 victory over Rwanda, with Victor Osimhen scoring both goals. That win provided a much-needed boost to the Super Eagles’ campaign, but they still find themselves trailing behind South Africa, Benin Republic, and Rwanda in the Group C standings. With six points from five matches, another victory is essential to strengthen their qualification hopes, especially with South Africa currently leading the group with ten points.
The Super Eagles will also be eager to improve on their first-leg performance against Zimbabwe, which ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw. In that match, Zimbabwe’s Walter Musona opened the scoring with a brilliant free-kick, exposing the weaknesses in Nigeria’s goalkeeping. Kelechi Iheanacho later converted a penalty to secure a point for Nigeria. Now playing at home and under the guidance of head coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles will be determined to claim all three points.
Zimbabwe Struggling in the Qualifiers
Zimbabwe has yet to register a win in the qualifiers, drawing three of their five matches. Their latest result was a 2-2 home draw against Benin Republic, leaving them bottom of the group with just three points. The Warriors made their way to Nigeria on Saturday, traveling from Lagos to Uyo ahead of the clash.
Head coach Michael Nees is expected to stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation that he used against Benin, with experienced players like Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona leading the attack. Billiat recently became Zimbabwe’s joint-third most capped player, while Musona, with 25 international goals, continues his chase of Peter Ndlovu’s all-time record of 37 goals.
Tactical Adjustments and Team News
Nigeria held a closed training session on Sunday evening, with a final session scheduled for Monday. The team is expected to deploy a 4-4-2 diamond formation, though some changes may occur. Bright Osayi-Samuel remains a doubt after suffering a dead leg against Rwanda, meaning Ola Aina could shift to right-back, with Bruno Onyemaechi slotting in at left-back.
Match Details and Broadcast Information
The match will be broadcast live on DSTV and StarTimes, with Nigerian fans hoping for a crucial home victory. A win would not only improve Nigeria’s standing in the group but also bring them one step closer to securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Sources
