The Super Eagles gain an edge against Zimbabwe as Marvelous Nakamba faces a six-week injury absence. This leaves Zimbabwe’s midfield weakened, impacting their game performance. Nigeria also deals with injuries but must regain player form ahead of important matches.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have gained a significant advantage as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe. Marvelous Nakamba, a key player and captain of the Zimbabwean national team, is set to miss six weeks due to a soleus injury sustained while playing for Luton Town. This absence could leave Zimbabwe’s midfield weakened ahead of their crucial game.
Nakamba, who has participated in 20 of Luton Town’s 35 Championship games this season, was injured during a match against Watford, where he was substituted at halftime. His absence is confirmed by Luton Town’s head coach, Matt Bloomfield, who noted the severity of Nakamba’s injury as affecting the team’s performance in the league.
The missing presence of Nakamba in the squad could shift the dynamics in the coming matches for Zimbabwe, especially since he has been an influential figure in the dressing room. Meanwhile, Nigeria must contend with their own injury issues, notably with Semi Ajayi ruled out due to a hamstring injury.
Other players such as Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface are just returning from injuries and will need time to regain their best form for Nigeria to succeed in the qualifiers. Nigeria’s upcoming matches include a trip to Rwanda on March 19 and a home game against Zimbabwe on March 22 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
In summary, Nigeria’s Super Eagles benefit from the injury of Zimbabwe’s captain Marvelous Nakamba ahead of their World Cup qualifying matches. With Nakamba sidelined, Zimbabwe’s midfield faces challenges, potentially impacting their performance. Nigeria, while facing some of their own injury concerns, will rely on key players to regain form for successful outings in the qualifiers.
Original Source: soccernet.ng
