Zimbabwe vs Nigeria: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

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Published at :November 17, 2023 at 1:34 PM

Modified at :January 14, 2024 at 1:09 AM

CAF World Cup 2026 qualifiers are underway

In the enchanting backdrop of Stade Huye in Butare, Rwanda, football enthusiasts are gearing up for a riveting showdown between Zimbabwe and Nigeria scheduled for Sunday, November 19, 2023, at 06:30 PM IST. As the sun begins to set over the stadium, the stage is set for an electrifying encounter that promises to be a feast for football aficionados.

We have the warriors from Zimbabwe, facing the mighty Super Eagles of Nigeria. It’s more than just a match; it’s a clash of footballing titans, each team bringing its unique flair and fervour to the pitch. The journey to this moment has been paved with highs and lows, victories and defeats.

Zimbabwe enters the arena with a recent draw against Rwanda in their World Cup qualifying campaign, grappling with injuries that have left key players on the sidelines. The resilience of the Zimbabwean squad, captained by the talented Knowledge Musona, will be put to the test against the formidable Nigerian side.

Speaking of Nigeria, the Super Eagles soar into the contest with an impressive form, boasting wins in their last three encounters. Spearheading their charge is the dynamic Alex Iwobi, a player known for his agility, dribbling finesse, and invaluable contributions both as a forward and midfielder. The Super Eagles’ rich history in this fixture, having won four out of the last five meetings, adds an extra layer of intensity to this clash.

Kick-Off:

Sunday, November 19, 2023, 06:30 PM (IST) Stade Huye, Butare, Rwanda.

Form

Zimbabwe: D W L L D

Nigeria: D W W W L

Players to Watch

Knowledge Musona (Zimbabwe)

Musona, born on June 21, 1990, is a talented Zimbabwean footballer known for his skills as a left winger or forward. Currently, he’s showcasing his prowess with Al-Riyadh in the Saudi Professional League while also leading the Zimbabwe national team as captain. His journey in professional football has taken him through South Africa, Belgium, and Germany, reflecting his diverse and impressive career on the field.

Alex Iwobi (Nigeria)

Alex Iwobi is a forward and midfielder from Nigeria who plays for Fulham in the Premier League. He is a vital member of both the club and the national squad. Iwobi is well known for his agility, dribbling prowess, and chance-creating abilities. He has contributed playmaking and goal-scoring opportunities and has been a dependable component of the Super Eagles for a considerable amount of time. He gives Nigeria’s offense a tremendous degree of ingenuity and a strong work ethic.

Match facts

In the previous five meetings, Nigeria have won four times, Zimbabwe have won none, and there has been one draw. Nigeria leads 11-1 in goal differential.
Zimbabwe have not won any of their last seven home games.
In their last five games, Nigeria have not lost.
In their last eight games, Zimbabwe have given up a goal in each of them.

Team news and Injury

On Wednesday, Zimbabwe’s World Cup qualifying campaign got underway with a draw away at the Amavubi of Rwanda. Due to many injury concerns, four of the players who started the match against Rwanda were not present when the team resumed training on Thursday morning.

The first-choice goalkeeper for the squad was still very much a doubt for the match against the Nigerian Super Eagles. Donovan Bernard, the goalkeeper, was only in the game for 22 minutes, and Terence Dzvukamanja, who took his position, was also hurt during the match.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 5

Zimbabwe: 0

Draw: 1

Nigeria: 4

Predicted Lineup for Zimbabwe vs Nigeria

Zimbabwe Predicted Lineup: (3-5-2)

Martin Mapisa; Lunga, Hadabe, Takwara; Musona, Banda, Nakamba, Munetsi, Mbeba; Muskwe, Dube

Nigeria Predicted Lineup: (4-4-2)

Okoye; Ebuehi, Balogun, Troost-Ekong, Collins; Ndidi, Aribo, Chukwueze, Iwobi; Osimhen, Onuachu

Match Prediction for Zimbabwe vs Nigeria

In a clash between Zimbabwe and Nigeria, the odds favour Nigeria with a 0-2 victory. Nigeria has displayed defensive strength in recent matches, consistently securing on the road. Zimbabwe’s struggles at home and a trend of low-scoring games for both teams make this prediction a plausible outcome.

Prediction: Zimbabwe 0-2 Nigeria

Telecast

India – FanCode

UK– None

US – FOX Sports, ESPN

Nigeria – AIT, SuperSport

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