5 takeaways from Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Zimbabwe: Perfect debut for Azeez, worry for Chukwueze

For all the noise around the absentees before kick-off, Nigeria’s Super Eagles eventually produced one of their most satisfying performances under Eric Chelle with a composed 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe at The Valley, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nigeria looked quicker, sharper and more clinical than in many of their recent outings against the Warriors.

Zimbabwe came into the Unity Cup semifinal carrying some confidence after frustrating Nigeria during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where the two sides played out damaging draws. Add the fact that the Super Eagles were missing experienced names like Wilfred Ndidi and Moses Simon, and there was genuine concern among supporters before the game.

Chelle responded by trusting fresh legs and unfamiliar faces. Arthur Okonkwo started in goal on debut, Femi Azeez was thrown straight into the attack, while Chibuike Nwaiwu and make-shift captain Terem Moffi were given major responsibility. It was a bold selection from the Malian coach, but it paid off brilliantly.

The biggest headline belonged to Azeez. The Millwall winger announced himself to Nigerian fans with two superbly-taken goals and an all-action display that immediately changed the conversation around the Super Eagles’ attack.

Supported by an energetic Moffi, Nigeria attacked with more directness and purpose than they have shown in some time.

By full-time, the Super Eagles had not only booked their place in the Unity Cup final, they had also ended a 20-year wait for victory over Zimbabwe. Here are five major takeaways from the game.

Nigeria finally end the Zimbabwe curse

This may have been a friendly tournament, but there was still a psychological barrier Nigeria needed to break against Zimbabwe. Before Tuesday night, the Super Eagles had not beaten the Warriors since a 2-0 win back in 2006.

Since then, Zimbabwe had become surprisingly stubborn opponents for Nigeria. The Super Eagles dropped costly points against them during the World Cup qualifying campaign and often looked nervous whenever the two teams met.

That made this victory important beyond the scoreline. Nigeria not only won, they controlled large spells of the match and looked comfortable after taking the lead. Ending that unwanted run removes one mental burden from the team heading into future competitive meetings.

Femi Azeez delivers the perfect Super Eagles debut

Azeez could hardly have imagined a better introduction to international football. Two goals, excellent movement, calm finishing and endless confidence on the ball, it was the kind of debut that instantly excites supporters.

His first goal came after only five minutes when he finished smartly from Terem Moffi’s assist. His second showed even more composure as he timed his movement well before calmly converting another Moffi pass after the break.

What stood out most was his decisiveness. While several Nigerian players wasted promising openings, Azeez showed the ruthless edge top international forwards need. He did not look nervous or overwhelmed by the occasion. Instead, he played like someone who had been in the squad for years.

If he continues at this level, Chelle may have discovered one of the most important attacking additions of his reign.

Is this a worry for Samuel Chukwueze?

Azeez’s explosive arrival naturally raises questions about the future of Samuel Chukwueze in the starting lineup.

For years, Chukwueze has remained one of Nigeria’s most dangerous dribblers, but finishing and consistency have often been criticised. Against Zimbabwe, Azeez showed the kind of clinical edge many fans have long wanted from that right-sided role.

Even on a night where he was still learning his teammates’ movements, the Millwall winger looked decisive in front of goal. That is the sort of quality coaches find difficult to ignore.

If Chelle eventually builds a front three around Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen and Azeez, there could suddenly be serious competition for places. Chukwueze remains a hugely talented player, but for the first time in a while, his position may no longer feel guaranteed.

Ogbu and Nwaiwu looked like a proper defensive partnership

Igoh Ogbu and Chibuike Nwaiwu were outstanding at the heart of Nigeria’s defence. Zimbabwe caused problems with their movement and counter-attacks, but the central defensive pair handled most situations calmly.

Whenever the full-backs were dragged out of position, one of Ogbu or Nwaiwu stepped across quickly to clear the danger. Their positioning was excellent, they won physical battles consistently, and both defenders looked comfortable carrying the ball forward when needed.

Perhaps most impressive was their understanding with each other despite limited time together. There was communication, discipline and confidence throughout the match.

Calvin Bassey is still Nigeria’s first-choice defender, but Chelle now has serious options beside him. Ogbu, Nwaiwu and Emmanuel Fernandez are all beginning to push strongly for regular involvement.

Eric Chelle’s unbeaten run continues

Quietly, Eric Chelle is beginning to build something solid with the Super Eagles.

Since taking charge in January 2025, the Malian coach has avoided defeat in regulation time and is gradually stamping his ideas on the team. Nigeria now look more organised defensively while also showing greater attacking structure.

Against Zimbabwe, Chelle deserves praise for trusting inexperienced players instead of relying only on established stars. His gamble paid off handsomely.

Three matches this year have produced two wins and one draw, and perhaps even more importantly, Nigeria now appear to have genuine competition for places across the squad. That is usually one of the strongest signs of a healthy national team.

Overall, the biggest winner from Tuesday night is undoubtedly Femi Azeez. But Chelle will leave The Valley equally pleased that his rebuilding process is beginning to show clear signs of progress.