WCQ: Nigeria Vs Zimbabwe, With Nigeria leading 1-0 in the 87th minute, talismanic striker Victor Osimhen requested to be substituted
By: Sunday Agunbiade (Mr. VAR)
At the time, Nigeria already had four forwards on the pitch—Osimhen, Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, and Tolu Arokodare. Instead of bringing on a midfielder to strengthen the team’s defensive shape, Chelle opted for Victor Boniface, maintaining the attacking setup.
This decision left Nigeria’s midfield exposed at a crucial moment when Zimbabwe was increasing pressure in search of an equalizer. Just before the substitution, the visitors had already come close to scoring, forcing a goalline clearance from Calvin Bassey after goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was beaten. The warning signs were there, yet the coaching staff failed to react defensively.
As a result, Nigeria struggled to regain control of the midfield, allowing Zimbabwe to push forward freely. The inevitable happened in stoppage time when Tawanda Chirewa dribbled past Nigeria’s backline and fired past Nwabali to secure a point for the visitors.
He is not to be blamed for the draw but this was a mistake.
In his post match interview, Chelle admitted there were mistakes made, this happens and i hope the team learns and moves forward.
Beyond this, Nigeria had opportunities to put the game beyond Zimbabwe’s reach, but missed chance after chance. SAD DAY.
