2026 World Cup Race: Again, Eagles Settle For Draw Against Zimbabwe

The Super Eagles, again, had to settle for a 1-1 draw on Day 2 of the FIFA World Cup qualifying African series after a tame performance failed to lift them above the Warriors of Zimbabwe in neutral Rwandan ground on Sunday. Walter Musona put the Warriors in front after 26 minutes with a 35-yard free-kick that eluded goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and sailed into the net. The Eagles did not play with the stronger mentality and determination they espoused after the 1-1 draw with Lesotho in Uyo on Thursday, as the Warriors, who played their own game against Rwanda a day earlier and better-rested, showed more hunger and desire for the three points. Moses Simon’s stout shielding of the ball and good decision in the box allowed Kelechi Iheanacho to slam past the goalkeeper for Nigeria’s equalizer after 67 minutes in Butare. The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resume in June 2024 with Nigeria hosting South Africa, current leaders of Group C, before travelling to an away game against Benin Republic.    

Africa Championship: Nigeria’s U-18 Women’s Handball Team Clinches Bronze

*Secures 2024 World Championship Spot In an impressive display of determination and skill, Nigeria’s under-18 Women’s Handball Team secured the bronze medal at the Africa Women’s Youth Handball Championship in Monastir, Tunisia. After a challenging semi-final loss to Egypt, the Nigerian team bounced back with a resounding 28-24 victory over Angola in the third-place match. The Nigerian team showcased their prowess from the very beginning, establishing a five-point lead in the first half with a score of 12-7. Their winning momentum continued into the second half, as they maintained their dominance over the Angolan counterparts, ultimately securing the bronze medal with a final score of 28-24. Speaking after the match, Shittu Agboola, the coach of the Nigerian team, praised his players’ performance, stating, “We wanted to play in the final instead of settling for third place; unfortunately, we lost the semi-final against Egypt yesterday. The most important achievement for us is securing a spot in the 2024 IHF Women’s Youth World Championship.” In the championship’s final match, Egypt, the defending champions, retained their title with a convincing 29-16 victory over Guinea, cementing their status as the 2023 Africa Women’s Youth Handball Championship winners. The 19th Africa Women’s Championship commenced on September 16 and showcased remarkable talent and sportsmanship among the participating teams.