The Tremendous Eagles of Nigeria secured a disappointing draw within the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification tie in opposition to Zimbabwe
Head coach of South Africa’s nationwide workforce, Hugo Broos, expressed concern over the poor state of Rwanda’s pitch the place Nigeria confronted Zimbabwe within the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Soccernet.ng studies.
The Tremendous Eagles of Nigeria clashed with the Warriors of Zimbabwe at Huye Stadium, leading to a 1-1 draw, with targets from Walter Musona and Kelechi Iheanacho.
In the meantime, the Bafana Bafana boss skilled a stunning 2-0 defeat on the identical problematic pitch, propelling Rwanda to the highest of the World Cup qualifying standings.
Forward of the matches, Broos criticized the synthetic pitch, deeming it outdated and similar to a avenue soccer pitch reasonably than the newer era artificial surfaces he had noticed in different video games.
“Once I noticed the footage of Rwanda’s video games in opposition to Zimbabwe and in addition of their Afcon qualifiers, I noticed a nasty pitch
“That was a brand new era artificial pitch. However right here it’s an artificial pitch that’s perhaps 20 or 25 years outdated, very dangerous situation. It’s such as you play on the road.” He stated.
This pitch situation may need affected Nigeria’s efficiency in opposition to Zimbabwe, as some Tremendous Eagles gamers, together with Alex Iwobi, had beforehand voiced complaints about such pitches in comparison with the usual at MKO Abiola Stadium.
Iwobi emphasised the significance of high quality pitches in Nigeria, citing their familiarity with well-maintained surfaces because of their European enjoying experiences.
“If we had good pitches in Nigeria, it’ll be troublesome to beat us. I’m assured to say that. Not many groups might beat us. We must always have everlasting good pitches in Nigeria with levelled grass as a result of many people play in Europe and we’re used to good pitches.” The Fulham star earlier said.
Regardless of the frustration of the draw, the Portuguese coach made no complaints concerning the pitch, attributing the workforce’s efficiency to the lengthy journey to Rwanda.
Rwandan-based journalist Usher Komugisha revealed that Rwanda’s upcoming conflict in opposition to the Tremendous Eagles in March 2025 will happen on the renovated Amahoro Stadium, anticipated to be accomplished earlier than the match.
Ayomide Oguntimehin
Ayomide holds a Bachelor’s Diploma in English and presently works as a Information Author. He has greater than 5 years of expertise in digital journalism, with a powerful background in researching and writing compelling information.