Warriors Show Grit in Nail-Biting Draw Against Super Eagles
By Loyd Matare
Zimbabwe’s Warriors put up a valiant fight against Nigeria’s Super Eagles, holding them to a dramatic 1-1 draw in a World Cup qualifier that had fans on the edge of their seats.
Nigeria dominated possession from the outset, launching relentless attacks against Zimbabwe’s defense.
Victor Osimhen nearly opened the scoring in the 7th minute, forcing Washington Arubi into an early save.
The resulting corner kick was also dealt with by the veteran goalkeeper, who quickly became the busiest man on the pitch in the first 10 minutes.
Zimbabwe had their moments too. Walter Musona came close in the 14th minute, skillfully navigating Nigeria’s defense before his shot hit the side netting.
The Warriors’ best chance of the first half came in the 19th minute when Marshall Munetsi set up Khama Billiat, but the forward couldn’t find the back of the net.
Despite the Nigerian pressure, Zimbabwe’s defense held firm, ensuring the teams went into halftime deadlocked at 0-0.
The Super Eagles resumed their onslaught in the second half, but Arubi’s heroics continued to frustrate them.
However, the pressure finally paid off in the 73rd minute when Osimhen broke the deadlock with a well-placed header, sending Nigerian fans into celebration.
Zimbabwe nearly hit back immediately, with Knowledge Musona’s shot cannoning off the crossbar in the 76th minute.
As time ticked away, it seemed like Nigeria would snatch all three points—until the Warriors had the final say.
In stoppage time, substitute Jethro Maswanhise delivered a perfect cross, and fellow substitute Tawanda Chirewa made no mistake, slotting home the equalizer to send Zimbabwean fans into jubilation.
Despite the spirited draw, Zimbabwe remains at the bottom of Group C with just four points.
With World Cup qualification hopes all but over, coach Michael Nees will need to focus on rebuilding and preparing the team for future tournaments.
However, with the resilience shown against Nigeria, the Warriors have proven they are no pushovers setting the stage for a promising future.
