The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face Zimbabwe in a critical World Cup qualifier, aiming to secure three points to boost their qualification hopes. Captain William Troost-Ekong emphasizes the need for control and opportunity capitalisation. The match holds significant importance for both teams, with Zimbabwe seeking to improve their standings. The NFF has introduced incentives for players and is urging fan participation.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are focused and prepared to secure a victory against Zimbabwe’s Warriors in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers Matchday 6, scheduled for Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. A win would elevate Nigeria’s total points to nine, significantly enhancing their chances of qualifying for the upcoming World Cup.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong underscored the match’s significance, urging his teammates to maintain control and take advantage of scoring opportunities, as demonstrated in their prior win against Rwanda. Ekong articulated, “We cannot afford to drop any more points. Our aim is to take it one match at a time and collect three points.”
Nigeria’s path to qualification appeared bleak after a winless streak propelled them to fifth in Group C. However, a recent 2-0 victory lifted them to fourth place with six points. Conversely, Zimbabwe, sitting at the bottom of the table with three points, aims to improve their situation against the Super Eagles in Uyo.
The Zimbabwe Warriors, led by ZIFA Vice President Kennedy Ndebele, arrived in Uyo on Saturday. They participated in a morning training session, while the Super Eagles practiced in the evening under the scrutiny of important football officials, including NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi.
Match officials for the encounter include Eritrean referee Teklu Mogos Tsegay and will feature his compatriots as assistants. Ghanaian Prosper Addo will serve as the match commissioner, while Paulin Ilboudo from Burkina Faso will assess the referee.
In Group C, South Africa leads with ten points and will confront the Benin Republic, currently at eight points. Additionally, Lesotho in fifth place is set to play against Rwanda.
To bolster morale, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has introduced incentives for the players. They have partnered with Nigerian Breweries to offer a ₦1 million cash prize for the Man of the Match and another ₦1 million for the Most Valuable Player.
Furthermore, in an effort to encourage fan support, Mr. Sanusi stated that the first 500 ticket purchasers would receive a free Super Eagles home jersey. He appealed to Nigerians to rally at the stadium in large numbers, noting the impact of full stadiums on team performance. Tickets for the match will be available on game day, priced at ₦3,000 for VIP and ₦1,000 for regular seats.
The Super Eagles are poised to secure a crucial victory against Zimbabwe, as they aim for World Cup qualification. With a renewed sense of urgency following recent successes, the team and its supporters are rallying together. Incentives have been introduced to motivate players, alongside a call for fans to show their unwavering support through attendance and enthusiasm at the match.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
