Zimbabwe defender Emmanuel Jalai has vowed that the Warriors will give their all when they take on Nigeria in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
Michael Nees’ side is still searching for their first win in the qualifiers and will be looking to cause an upset when they face the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Jalai, 26, acknowledged Nigeria’s strength but remains confident that Zimbabwe can pull off a surprise result.
“Of course, it is not going to be an easy game, but football is always unpredictable and full of surprises. We have to do our best and give our all when we face them,” Jalai said in a video posted on the Zimbabwe Football Association’s official X account.
Despite Nigeria’s squad boasting top talents, Jalai believes the Warriors also have enough quality to compete.
“They have quality players, and we have quality players too. We have to impose ourselves on the game.”
The Zimbabwean squad arrived in Nigeria on Saturday and had their first training session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium’s practice pitch on Sunday.
Jalai noted that the team is working hard to adjust to the hot weather conditions ahead of the clash.
“It was a good training session, despite the weather. It’s hot, but we have to adapt. I’m sure when we play on Tuesday, the weather will be the same. We have to adjust and acclimatize.”
With both teams eager to secure valuable points, the match promises to be a fiercely contested encounter in Uyo.
