Nigeria vs Zimbabwe: When, How to Watch & Score Prediction
Kick-off is set at 4 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT), and fans can catch the action live on SuperSport.
Last Friday's victory ended a frustrating four-game winless run and reignited hopes of making it to the 2026 World Cup. Before Chelle took over, Nigeria had only managed three draws in four games, including a shock 2-1 defeat to Benin. Now, they sit fourth in Group C with six points—four behind group leaders South Africa and two behind Benin.
A win against Zimbabwe is crucial. The two sides have faced off three times in World Cup qualifiers, with Nigeria winning twice. Their last meeting ended in a 1-1 draw.
Nigeria's attack, spearheaded by African Best Player Ademola Lookman and goal machine Victor Osimhen, will test Zimbabwe's backline. Chelle is likely to stick with his 4-4-2 diamond formation, but injuries could force a few tweaks. Bright Osayi-Samuel remains a doubt, which might see Ola Aina shift to right-back and Bruno Onyemaechi slot in on the left. Samuel Chukwueze had a tough outing in the last match and could make way for Raphael Onyedika.
Zimbabwe are rock bottom in the group and still hunting for their first win. They showed fight last time out, clawing back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Benin. But their defensive frailties are a major concern—they've leaked a group-high eight goals while scoring just four. Their recent form is worrying, with no wins in five matches.
Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees will likely stick with his 4-2-3-1 setup but faces a selection headache. Captain Marvelous Nakamba is out injured, meaning Marshal Munetsi will wear the armband. Forward Tino Kadewere is also sidelined, forcing Nees to bring veteran striker Knowledge Musona out of retirement.
Probable Lineups:
Nigeria: Nwabali; Ekong, Bassey, Aina, Onyemaechi; Iwobi, Ndidi, Onyedika, Lookman; Simon, Osimhen.
Zimbabwe: Arubi; Jalai, Garananga, Takwara, Lunga; Munetsi, Rinomhota; Musona, Billiat, Zemura; Dube.
Predicted Score:
Nigeria have much quality firepower upfront and are likely to beat a frail Zimbabwean side.
Nigeria 3-0 Zimbabwe
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