2026 Unity Cup: Chelle’s new-look Eagles outclass Zimbabwe to book final spot

Posted : 27 May 2026

Nigeria’s second-string Super Eagles side produced a confident and disciplined display to defeat Zimbabwe 2-0 on Tuesday night and secure a place in the final of the 2026 Unity Cup at Charlton Athletic Stadium, The Valley.

Despite missing several established stars, Coach Eric Chelle’s youthful and experimental squad showed quality and composure throughout the encounter, with a number of debutants making strong impressions in the semi-final clash against the Warriors.

Millwall forward Femi Azeez was the standout performer on the night, marking his international debut with a brilliant brace that powered the three-time African champions into another Unity Cup final.

The home-based and foreign-based fringe players wasted no time asserting themselves as Azeez opened the scoring in just the fifth minute. The lively winger capped a flowing team move with a fierce left-footed finish that beat Zimbabwe goalkeeper Future Sibanda.

Nigeria continued to dominate possession and attacking play after the early breakthrough. Azeez nearly doubled the lead moments later, while midfielder Alhassan Yusuf also tested the Zimbabwean defence with his driving runs from midfield.

Zimbabwe gradually found their rhythm but were repeatedly frustrated by Nigeria’s organised backline, marshalled by Chibuike Nwaiwu, Igoh Ogbu, and debutant Chibueze Oputa. The defenders dealt comfortably with threats from Marshall Munetsi and Junior Zindoga as the Super Eagles maintained control before halftime.

The second half resumed in similar fashion, with Nigeria looking sharper and more purposeful in attack. Their pressure paid off again when Azeez grabbed his second goal of the evening after combining effectively with Philip Otele and Terem Moffi in another swift attacking move.

Zimbabwe attempted a response late in the game, but goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo produced an impressive save in the 71st minute to preserve Nigeria’s clean sheet on his international debut.

Coach Chelle later introduced Tosin Oyedokun, Owen Oseni, Rafiu Durosinmi, and Aderemi Adeoye, handing more players their first senior appearances for the national team as Nigeria comfortably saw out the contest.

The victory sends the Super Eagles into their fourth Unity Cup final, where they will face either Jamaica or India, who meet in the second semi-final on Wednesday.

This dominant semi-final performance underscores the depth and talent available within Nigeria's experimental squad. With debutants rising to the occasion, the team heads into the championship match with significant momentum and confidence. The upcoming final promises another exciting opportunity for these fringe stars to showcase their capabilities on the international stage.

2026 Unity Cup: Chelle’s new-look Eagles outclass Zimbabwe to book final spot

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