Super Eagles players departed to their various clubs crestfallen following their heartbreaking 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Tuesday World Cup qualifiers in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Against the Warriors of Zimbabwe, it was a match they needed to win to keep their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Soccer fiesta alive. Victor Osimhen put them within reach of victory after labouring for 74 minutes. But just when they thought it was all wrapped up Zimbabwe ranked 121 in the world. equalised on the dot of 90 minutes.
A viral video of Osimhen fuming after the shock result made the rounds on Wednesday, he was seen collapsing on the bench and later shunned teammate Victor Boniface who was trying to console him as walked into the dressing room tunnel.
It was gathered from sources that back in their hotel the players discussed amongst themselves what went wrong, and it was a pity party instead of the victory party they had anticipated.
With the result the Super Eagles will now struggle to make the second-best qualifiers and must win their remaining games to make that happen. With seven points from six matches, they are not in the top nine of second-best finishers.
Coach Eric Chelle said after the game: “I am so disappointed for my players, for the country, because we couldn’t do it [win against Zimbabwe].
“We tried to score many goals, and after we scored, I told my players to continue trying to score another goal.
“We were a little tired. We made a small mistake to concede the goal.
“This is how we conceded against Rwanda here. This goal determined the result of the match.”
World Cup qualification for the Super Eagles will resume in September when they face Rwanda at home and South Africa away.
