Zimbabwe head coach, Michael Nees, is confident his team can defeat Nigeria in their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on March 25. The two teams will meet at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, during Matchday 26 of the qualifiers.
Both teams are desperate for a win to revive their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Currently sitting at the bottom of Group C with just two points, Zimbabwe will be looking to upset Nigeria, who are fifth in the group with three points from four matches.
Despite Nigeria’s star-studded squad, Nees is optimistic about his team’s chances. “Like us, Nigeria have their back against the wall. They are like wounded lions, wanting to turn the page after a poor start to the qualifiers,” Nees said. “It will be an exciting game, and Nigeria are beatable in Uyo.”
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Nees added that his team is ready for the challenge. “We are ready to fight and give our best. It’s going to be tough, but we have a real chance to get a result,” he said.
Soccer Football – Africa Cup of Nations 2019 – Group A – Uganda v Zimbabwe – Cairo International Stadium, Cairo, Egypt – June 26, 2019 Zimbabwe players pose for a team group photo before the match REUTERS/Mohamed Abd El Ghany
In response to the Zimbabwe coach’s comments, Nigeria recently announced their provisional squad for the upcoming qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. The Super Eagles’ squad includes key players such as Victor Osimhen, William Ekong, Ademola Lookman, and captain Ahmed Musa, alongside 35 other selected players.
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Returning stars like Cyriel Dessers, Zaidu Sanusi, and Joe Aribo are also included in the roster, as well as exciting new faces such as Igoh Ogbu from Slavia Prague, Sevilla striker Akor Adams, Getafe’s Christantus Uche, and Genk’s in-form striker Tolu Arokodare.
Nigeria restart their World cup qualification in Kigali, Rwanda, on March 21, followed by the crucial clash against Zimbabwe on March 25 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
