Super Eagles Stumble Again: Chelle Fumes as Nigeria Drop Crucial Points Against Zimbabwe
The pressure is mounting on Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle after Nigeria’s shocking 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday, a result that leaves their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
Despite dominating for much of the game, the Super Eagles failed to capitalize on their chances. Victor Osimhen’s 74th-minute goal had seemingly secured a much-needed win, only for Tawanda Chirewa to silence the home crowd with a heartbreaking stoppage-time equalizer.
Chelle, visibly frustrated, did not hold back in his post-match assessment, calling out his team’s wastefulness in front of goal and complacency after taking the lead.
“We could have scored ten goals in the first half! We made mistakes in the final moments, and Zimbabwe defended well,” Chelle fumed.
The result leaves Nigeria languishing in fourth place in Group C with just seven points, a staggering six behind leaders South Africa. With only four matches left, the road to North America now looks perilous.
A Shocking Collapse & A Tough Road Ahead
The Super Eagles were in control for large spells, creating numerous scoring opportunities but failing to convert. Osimhen finally broke the deadlock, sparking hope among fans, but a lapse in concentration in the dying moments proved costly.
Chelle was furious at his players’ attitude after taking the lead.
“When we scored, we thought the game was over. It’s tough because my players were the better team on the pitch,” he lamented.
The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign now teeters on the edge of disaster. Nigeria must navigate a must-win scenario in their remaining fixtures to salvage hopes of securing a second-place finish and a potential playoff spot.
Despite his frustration, Chelle insisted that the fight isn’t over yet.
“I am disappointed for my players and the country, but we will fight for second place.”
Fans & Pundits Demand Urgent Action
With mounting pressure from angry fans and critics, the draw against Zimbabwe is yet another setback in what has been a disjointed and underwhelming qualifying campaign. Questions are now being asked about Chelle’s tactics, squad selections, and whether the Super Eagles can turn things around before it’s too late.
For now, Nigeria’s World Cup dreams remain in limbo. Will the Super Eagles rise to the challenge, or is this the beginning of yet another qualification heartbreak? The next few games will determine their fate.
