The Super Eagles’ bumpy road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup just got even trickier, as Zimbabwean players have been promised a hefty $150,000 each if they can pull off an upset against Nigeria in their upcoming qualifier.
Originally, the Zimbabwean government pledged the same amount to their squad if they defeated Benin last Thursday, but that game ended in a 2-2 draw. Now, a fresh incentive has been laid on the table—beat Nigeria in Uyo, and the cash flows again.
While this bonus serves as a massive motivation for the Warriors, some might see it as an underwhelming challenge to Nigeria’s three-time African champions, given the Super Eagles’ pedigree.
Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign has been far from convincing. After four matches, the team remains winless, languishing in fifth place in Group C—trailing behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe. With their World Cup dreams hanging by a thread, the pressure is now on Nigeria to prove their worth against a fired-up Zimbabwean side with extra financial firepower driving them.
Will the Super Eagles rise to the occasion, or will Zimbabwe cash in on their struggles?
