The Warriors of Zimbabwe will commence their first training session this morning as they intensify preparations for their crucial showdown against Nigeria’s Super Eagles on matchday 6 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The highly anticipated fixture will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, with both teams eager to secure vital points.

The Zimbabwean squad, including players, coaches, and officials, touched down in Nigeria on Saturday evening, just hours after the Super Eagles returned from their triumphant trip to Rwanda, where they claimed a much-needed 2-0 victory.

The 45-man delegation, led by Kennedy Ndebele, Vice President of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), received a warm welcome upon arrival. They were greeted at the airport by the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Samuel Umoh, alongside officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), who extended their hospitality ahead of the upcoming clash.

Zimbabwe Yet to Win in Qualifiers

Despite showing glimpses of resilience in previous matches, Zimbabwe remains winless in the ongoing World Cup qualifying campaign. After five rounds of fixtures in Group C, the Warriors have managed just three draws while suffering two defeats, leaving them at the bottom of the standings with only three points.

Their most recent outing saw them put up a determined fight against Benin, coming from two goals down to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw. While the result showcased their fighting spirit, it was not enough to lift them off the foot of the table.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Super Eagles, following their crucial 2-0 victory over Rwanda, have moved up to fourth place in the group with six points. The win in Kigali has given them renewed confidence as they look to build momentum in their quest for World Cup qualification.

A History of Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s last visit to Nigeria for a World Cup qualifier dates back nearly two decades to October 2005. That match, which was part of the final round of the 2006 World Cup qualifiers, saw the Super Eagles deliver a commanding 5-1 victory in Abuja.

Despite their emphatic win, Nigeria ultimately missed out on qualification for the tournament in Germany, as Angola finished ahead of them in the group standings due to their superior head-to-head record. That painful memory remains fresh for Nigerian football fans, who will be hoping their team secures a more meaningful victory this time around.

For Zimbabwe, the upcoming match presents an opportunity to upset the Super Eagles on their home soil and earn a historic win against one of Africa’s football powerhouses.

Financial Boost for Zimbabwe’s Players

As an extra motivation for their players, the Zimbabwean government has announced a lucrative financial incentive for the squad ahead of their clash with Nigeria. Each player has been promised a staggering $150,000 (approximately N300 million) reward if they can secure a victory in Uyo.

This follows a similar financial boost ahead of their previous match against Benin, which ended in a hard-fought 2-2 draw. While the financial incentives provide added encouragement, Zimbabwe will need to put in a spirited performance to stand a chance against a rejuvenated Nigerian side determined to climb further up the standings.

With both teams desperately needing points for different reasons—Nigeria aiming to stay in contention for a World Cup spot and Zimbabwe fighting for their first win of the campaign—the stage is set for an intense battle in Uyo.

All eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they look to capitalize on home advantage and extend their resurgence. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe will hope to defy the odds and pull off a shock result that could reignite their qualification hopes.