Zimbabwe head coach Michael Nees took a swipe at Nigeria following his team’s impressive 1-1 draw against the Super Eagles in Uyo on Tuesday.
Despite being bottom of Group C with four points, Zimbabwe frustrated Nigeria, who now sit on six points, as both teams continue to struggle in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, the 57-year-old downplayed Nigeria’s superiority and insisted that both teams still have equal chances of qualification.
“The qualification is over when it is over. If it’s over for us, then it is also over for Nigeria,” Nees said. “How many points do you have?”
His comments confirmed that despite Nigeria’s reputation as one of Africa’s football powerhouses, their performance in the qualifiers has not been convincing enough to separate them from the rest of the pack.
Nigeria, who were expected to dominate the group, have now drawn four of their six games, leaving their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance.
The Super Eagles had taken the lead against Zimbabwe early in the game but failed to capitalize, allowing the visitors to snatch an equalizer and earn a valuable point.
For Zimbabwe, the result was a morale boost, even though they remain at the bottom of the table.
Nees believes his team is still in the race for qualification and is determined to fight until the very end.
Nigeria, on the other hand, faces increasing pressure to improve their form.
With only six points from six matches, the Super Eagles must turn things around quickly if they hope to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Nigeria must regroup and find solutions to their struggles if they hope to turn things around.
