Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has applauded the Nigerian national team for their determination and professionalism during Tuesday’s World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe.
Obi, who attended the game in person at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium, expressed his admiration through a Wednesday post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the players’ unwavering commitment and competitive spirit throughout the encounter.
He wrote, “Yesterday, I travelled to Uyo, Akwa Ibom state capital, where I joined a host of other sport-enthusiastic Nigerians to support The Super Eagles as they played the Warriors of Zimbabwe in their sixth match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.
“As usual, our team demonstrated the true Nigerian spirit of strength, resilience and dedication on the field of play. Football, and indeed sports, has remained a strong unifying factor for our nation battling with disunity.”
He added that while the Super Eagles did not secure the win, their determination and sportsmanship had won the hearts of Nigerians.
“While we may not have clinched the victory on the field of play, our dear players have, again, won our hearts with their obvious display of sportsmanship.
“I sincerely appreciate our dear national football team and, indeed, everyone whose efforts and sacrifices got us far in this journey. Our labours were not in vain,” he wrote.
Reports state that the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup qualification campaign suffered another blow following a frustrating 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday.
After a lackluster first half, Victor Osimhen finally broke the deadlock in the 74th minute, but Eric Chelle’s side failed to maintain their advantage, conceding a late equalizer in stoppage time.
The result sparked criticism from Nigerian fans, many of whom lamented the team’s disjointed play, wasteful finishing, and over-reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive teamwork. With this draw, the Super Eagles’ path to the USA, Canada, and Mexico-hosted tournament grows increasingly precarious.