2026 World Cup qualifier: Why Nigeria lost to Zimbabwe – Eric Chelle

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle admitted that the team made some mistakes during their 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.

Chelle said his team deserved to beat Zimbabwe in a must-win 2026 World Cup qualifier, but tired towards the end to allow the visitors to snatch a late draw.

In the 74th minute, Victor Osimhen scored with a diving header for the second game running to give the Super Eagles the lead after so much pressure on the Zimbabwean goal.

However, the Warriors of Zimbabwe battled on to draw level in the closing minutes of the match.

“It was hard for us because we made a great first half with lots of intensity and aggression and so may be the players were a little tired,” he explained at the post-match media briefing.

“This was why may be we needed a second goal.

“It’s difficult to analyse this match now because we deserved to win it.”

The Super Eagles are now fourth in Group C with seven points from six matches, six points adrift of leaders South Africa.

The qualifying tournament resumes in September.

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