World Cup 2026 Qualifier: Nigeria stumble at home as South Africa win away to maintain lead

Nigeria failed to consolidate on the 2-0 away form in Rwanda after Tuesday’s 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, to make the chances of qualifier for the World Cup more difficult.

It was a day South African claimed an important 2-0 away win against Benin Republic, in Abidjan, to open a six-point lead at the top of the log.

South Africa has 13 points followed by Rwanda and Benin with 8 points. Nigeria comes next with 7 points.

Lesotho and Zimbabwe have six and four points respectively.

Golden boy, Victor Osimhen gave Nigeria the lead in the 74h minute to take nis goal tally to three in two matches, but the Zimbabweans fought back to equalize on the dot of 90 minutes.

Substitute Tawanda Chirewa beat the Nigerian defence line to put the ball behind goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and turn the stadium into a gloomy mood.

Eric Chelle’s squad will now wait to play Rwanda at home in September at a time South Africa will play away to Lesotho.

Ironically, Lesotho plays their home matches at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, in Durban, South Africa.