DailySun
Zimbabwe’s coach Michael Nees emphasizes the importance of a strong start against Nigeria’s formidable team during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday (18:00).
He asserts that another lackluster performance cannot be accepted.
In their recent match against Benin at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Thursday, Zimbabwe conceded two first-half goals. However, they bounced back with goals from former Orlando Pirates midfielder Marshal Munetsi and Kaizer Chiefs striker Knowledge Musona, resulting in a 2-2 draw.
On the other hand, Nigeria achieved a 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali on Friday, with star striker and 2023 CAF Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen, netting both goals and leading the Super Eagles to their first victory in Group C.
Nees acknowledges Nigeria’s offensive strength and depth, placing them among the top five teams in the world. He warns that a slow start could be fatal.
“Nigeria is undeniably one of the top five teams in the world regarding their attacking talents,” Nees told Sportswire.
“Considering the quality of players they have, it’s quite impressive. However, sometimes names on a squad list don’t always translate into outstanding performances on the field.
“Nonetheless, Nigeria has players at an elite level. We must avoid conceding early; we need to be involved right from the start of the match.
“Our focus must be sharp because the goals we conceded against Benin were mostly preventable.
“The first goal was straightforward to understand, and on the second, we were caught off guard, losing midfield duels, which allowed them to quickly connect and score without us anticipating it.”
Nigeria’s victory has placed them fourth in Group C, with six points from five matches, while Bafana Bafana leads the group with 10 points. Zimbabwe’s draw with Benin, their third in the qualifiers, leaves them at the bottom of the group with three points from five games.
Despite having drawn in their last encounter with Nigeria, Zimbabwe faces a substantial challenge to win on Nigerian territory and must greatly enhance their performance.
Zimbabwe has not celebrated a World Cup qualifying win since their victory over Somalia in the second preliminary round in 2019.
Only the group winner will secure automatic qualification for the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, while the four best-placed runners-up will have a chance to advance through playoffs.
