After a solid 2-0 victory over Rwanda, Nigeria will look to build momentum in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign when they face Zimbabwe on Tuesday in Uyo. The Super Eagles are aiming for back-to-back wins to solidify their position in Group C.

  

On paper, this should be a straightforward task for the Super Eagles. Zimbabwe, yet to win a match in the qualifiers, have drawn three times—0-0 against Rwanda, 1-1 against Nigeria in the first leg, and 2-2 against Benin Republic. Despite their struggles, the Warriors remain determined to cause an upset and claim their first victory in the group stage.

  

However, with South Africa leading the group with 10 points, Eric Chelle’s side knows that dropping points at home is not an option. The Super Eagles must remain focused and ensure they capitalize on this fixture to stay in contention for automatic qualification.

  

Having missed out on the last World Cup in Qatar after their playoff defeat to Ghana, the Super Eagles must seize this opportunity to strengthen their qualification hopes. A win would give Nigeria a strong platform to build upon ahead of their next set of matches in the qualification series.

  

Nigeria’s Recent Form & Head-to-Head Record

  

The Super Eagles come into this game on the back of a commanding win over Rwanda, where Victor Osimhen’s brace secured Nigeria’s first victory in the qualifiers. That result boosted their morale after a slow start to the campaign.

  

A win on Tuesday would put them in a strong position ahead of the next international break, where tougher fixtures await. Eric Chelle’s men need to maximize their home advantage and avoid any complacency against Zimbabwe.

  

Historically, Nigeria holds the upper hand in this fixture. The only time Zimbabwe defeated the Super Eagles was in an international friendly back in 1981. Since then, Nigeria has dominated this matchup, often proving too strong for the Warriors.

  

In eight meetings, Nigeria has won four times, drawn three, and lost once. One of the most memorable encounters came in 2005 when Nigeria thrashed Zimbabwe 5-1 in a World Cup qualifier. The Super Eagles will be hoping for a similar performance on Tuesday to maintain their dominance.

  

Team News

  

Nigeria

  

Super Eagles players during a cooling break in the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda in Kigali. Photo | NFF

  

The Super Eagles held a closed training session on Sunday evening and will have their final session on Monday as they put the finishing touches on their preparations for the game.

  

Eric Chelle is expected to have a full squad available, although Bright Osayi-Samuel remains a doubt after suffering a dead leg against Rwanda. His fitness will be assessed before kickoff to determine if he can start or play a role from the bench.

  

If unfit, Ola Aina could shift to right-back, with Bruno Onyemaechi stepping in at left-back. The defensive setup will be crucial in ensuring Nigeria maintains a solid shape and prevents Zimbabwe from gaining any foothold in the game.

  

Chelle deployed a 4-4-2 diamond formation in the last match and is likely to stick with the system, though minor changes in personnel may occur. The midfield battle will be key, and players like Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi will have to control the tempo of the game.

  

Zimbabwe

  

Zimbabwe player skips past an opponent during the 2025 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Photo | X

  

The Warriors arrived in Nigeria on Saturday, just a few hours after the Super Eagles, following some travel delays. Despite the disruptions, head coach Michael Nees has remained positive about his team’s chances in Uyo.

  

Head coach Michael Nees is likely to stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation used against Benin, which gave them some attacking threat but also exposed their defense at times. The team will need to be more disciplined against Nigeria to avoid conceding early.

  

Khama Billiat, who recently became Zimbabwe’s joint-third most capped player with 57 appearances, is on the verge of surpassing Adam Ndlovu. His experience and creativity will be crucial for the Warriors as they look to break down Nigeria’s defense.

  

Meanwhile, Knowledge Musona, who has 25 international goals, will look to add to his tally as he continues his chase of Peter Ndlovu’s all-time record of 37 goals. His finishing ability could be Zimbabwe’s biggest weapon in this game.

  

Key Battles to Watch

  

1. **Victor Osimhen vs. Zimbabwe’s Defense** – The Napoli striker will be the main goal threat for Nigeria. If he finds space, Zimbabwe will struggle to contain him.

  

2. **Wilfred Ndidi vs. Marvelous Nakamba** – Two experienced midfielders who will be battling for control in the center of the pitch. Whoever dominates this duel could dictate the flow of the game.

  

3. **Khama Billiat vs. Ola Aina** – Billiat’s dribbling skills and attacking movements could test Nigeria’s full-backs, making it an interesting battle on the flanks.

  

Match Prediction

  

Nigeria must start with high intensity and press Zimbabwe from the opening whistle. The Super Eagles will be confident in their ability to dominate possession and create chances, but they must remain focused defensively to avoid conceding cheap goals.

  

Given their superior squad quality, home advantage, and recent form, the Super Eagles should secure a comfortable victory to strengthen their position in the group.

  

Prediction: **Nigeria 3-1 Zimbabwe.**

  

Match Details

  

**Competition:** CAF World Cup Qualifiers (Matchday 6)

  

**Fixture:** Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe

  

**Venue:** Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo

  

**Date:** Tuesday, March 25, 2025

  

**Kickoff Time:** 5 PM (Nigerian Time)