As the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup heats up, Zimbabwe’s head coach Michael Nees has sounded a note of caution ahead of a critical encounter with Nigeria’s Super Eagles in March. Both teams are struggling in Group C, with Nigeria sitting on three points and Zimbabwe trailing with two after four matches. Yet, Nees remains wary of the Nigerian side, describing them as “a wounded lion” poised to strike back with renewed determination.

Zimbabwe’s situation is familiar. The Warriors, despite their passionate fanbase, have never reached the World Cup finals. But Nigeria’s predicament is far more shocking. With six World Cup appearances and three African Cup of Nations titles, the Super Eagles are considered one of the continent’s footballing powerhouses. Their struggles in this campaign have left fans and pundits alike searching for answers.

In response, the Nigerian Football Federation turned to Malian coach Eric Chelle to ignite a revival. With a star-studded squad featuring Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Victor Boniface, the Super Eagles remain a formidable force on paper, even if the results have yet to match the potential.

Their upcoming fixtures against group leaders Rwanda and Zimbabwe will be decisive. When the two sides last met, Nigeria salvaged a 1-1 draw thanks to Kelechi Iheanacho’s late heroics, marking only the second time Zimbabwe avoided defeat in six encounters.

Speaking to CAFOnline, Nees reflected on the challenge. “Nigeria is a wounded lion and therefore very dangerous. Their potential far exceeds their current position in the group. When you look at African footballers, Nigeria remains one of the top teams.”

Despite acknowledging Nigeria’s threat, Nees remains optimistic. Under his guidance, Zimbabwe secured a 2025 AFCON spot with a game to spare, and he believes the Warriors can rise to the occasion. “We take it step by step, match by match, and even training by training. There are so many variables in football, and we’ll approach it wisely,” Nees assured.

The Super Eagles, buoyed by a history of dominance over Zimbabwe, including a memorable 5-1 victory in 2005, will hope to channel their pride and pedigree to turn their campaign around. But as Nees warns, a desperate team can be the most dangerous opponent.