Zimbabwe Salvages Point in Dramatic Draw Against Nigeria
Last-Minute Equalizer Stuns Super Eagles in World Cup Qualifier
ABUJA, Nigeria — In a thrilling World Cup qualifier match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Zimbabwe pulled off a stunning 1-1 draw against Nigeria thanks to a dramatic last-minute goal from Tawanda Chirewa.
Nigeria Dominates Before Late Twist
The Super Eagles controlled much of the game at Moshood Abiola National Stadium, with Victor Osimhen breaking the deadlock in the 73rd minute. The Napoli striker rose magnificently to meet Ola Aina’s cross, powering a header past Zimbabwe’s defense to put Nigeria ahead.
Just as the hosts appeared destined for victory, the match took an unexpected turn in stoppage time. Chirewa, displaying remarkable composure, dribbled past a defender and coolly slotted the ball past Nigeria’s goalkeeper to silence the home crowd.
Heroes Emerge for Zimbabwe
The match saw several standout performances for Zimbabwe:
- Tawanda Chirewa – The young attacker announced himself with a moment of brilliance
- Washington Arubi – The veteran goalkeeper made crucial saves to keep Zimbabwe in the game
While veteran Khama Billiat struggled to make an impact, Chirewa’s late heroics signaled the emergence of Zimbabwe’s next generation of talent.
Group C Standings Update
The result leaves Group C tightly contested, with South Africa moving five points clear at the top after their 2-0 victory over Benin. Both Nigeria and Zimbabwe will look to build on this performance in their upcoming qualifiers.
Lineups
Nigeria: S. Nwabali, B. Osayi-Samuel, W. Troost-Ekong, C. Bassey, O. Aina, W. Ndidi, S. Chukwueze (T. Arokodare 60′), A. Lookman, A. Iwobi (R. Onyedika 78′), V. Osimhen, M. Simon.
Zimbabwe: W. Arubi, E. Jalai, M. Garan’anga, G. Takwara, D. Lunga, A. Rinomhota (T. Maswanhise 85′), M. Munetsi, J. Zemura, K. Billiat (P. Dube 85′), W. Musona (T. Dzvukamanja 63′, T. Chirewa 80′), K. Musona.
This encouraging result gives Zimbabwe momentum as they prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations in December.
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